Using Google SMS.
One of the best ways to get information via the mobile phone for those of us that don’t have a Blackberry or internet-enabled, data-ready phone is to send a text message to Google, or 466453. If you have free texting, this is an excellent way to get information while on the go.
Phone Numbers
Syntax: “marks pizza penn yan ny”
Probably the easiest thing to find is phone numbers. The syntax above will get you the number for Mark’s Pizzeria in Penn Yan, New York the same as if you had typed it into google.com. Occasionally you’ll have a problem if it’s a common name or a busy location, but if you’re just looking to order a pizza on your way home or call a restaurant to tell them you’re running a couple of minutes late on your reservation, texting Google is the way to go.
Movie Times
Syntax: “m 11580”
This search will give you movie listings for zip code 11580, which is on Long Island. From there, Google understands exactly what you’re looking for. It’ll text you back a menu of movies, you pick which one you want to see, and it’ll tell you where it’s playing in the area.
Flights
Syntax: “jetblue 12”
Curious if your friends flight is delayed? This query told me that the flight from JFK to SYR was scheduled to arrive at 4:42, but actually landed at 5:01 at gate B6.
Sports
Syntax: “mets game” or “mets score” or just “ny mets”
Get the last game results as well as when the next game is, or get the score if you’re not near the tv. This could probably be more detailed, as it doesn’t mention pitchers or which inning the game is in, but it’ll get you the score in a pinch.
Weather
Syntax: “w shanghai”
It’s 81 degrees in Shanghai right now, cloudy, with 89% humidity. It also tells me the forecast for the next three days.
Google SMS can be very helpful. For more beyond these tips and tricks, text help to 466453.
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