How to: Google local listings with any TXT-capable phone

Need to find a local business address on Google, but don't have web access? If you've got a phone with text messaging capability, you can perform that Google search and get info in just seconds. Here's how:

1. Create a new TXT message to GOOGL (46645)
2. In your TXT message, enter the business name and zip code closest to you
3. Send your message

In just a few seconds, you'll get a reply message with the business address info; it's that simple. I just tried this to find the nearest Best Buy (as if I didn't know) and my reply message shown was returned in under five seconds.

Thanks to jkOnThePhone for the tip....hey, shouldn't jk be "OnTheRun"? James, put the phone down and stop spamming Google with text messages, would ya?

Comments

[Kevin White]

Google's text search has saved my butt many times. Comparison shopping using froogle (I often buy in brick and mortar stores just because I'm there and it's more convenient than waiting for shipping), finding business phone numbers, getting directions (which is tricky because the SMSes often come out of order).... it's pretty cool.

[Keith]

For directions I use the J2ME version of Google Maps, but I love using Google's SMS service for lots of quick lookups, whether it's phone numbers, movie times or sports scores/start times.

It does have its drawbacks, though. It is easily confused by some search terms (S&K Menswear gave it fits, as did looking for Miami Vice showtimes), and as Kevin pointed out long results commonly come out of order.

[Greg]

You can also send a text message to 46645 with "help" or "tips" in the body (without the quotes) and get back some of the other options besides just locations of a business. Can also get weather, stock quotes, definitions, calculations, currency conversations, and more.

[keith]

There is also yahoo and microsoft (wslive). I like yahoo personally because one text per response and there is also a link. Using the mobile search (windows live search mobile) is near the best: works with GPS, routes and has traffic. Yahoo also supports definitions, weather, wifi, help etc. Oh yeah, playing scrabble and texting a friend is so much fun.... LOL....