Microsoft Corp.’s is giving consumers a helping hand when it comes to searching on the run. After launching its new search engine earlier this month, the company quietly unveiled a new service dubbed Bing 411.

 

The system, which is powered by Tellme, uses speech recognition technology to retrieve results. The free service helps users find a business, or receive a text message with a link to a map. It also includes star ratings of businesses based on reviews from others. The system launched as Microsoft’s (News - Alert) search engine Bing rolled out.

 

How does it work? Users dial 1-800-Bing 411 (1-800-246-4411) from any phone and give the system the information they’re seeking. Bing 411 will give you directions over the phone (you can stop and repeat the directions several times, if needed). Or users can request them via text message.

 

I like to think I’m pretty good with directions, but there’s nothing wrong with a little help. Right? 

So, I thought I’d give Bing 411 a try. I called and asked for driving directions from my home to TMC’s (News - Alert) office in Norwalk, Conn. It takes 12 steps to drive the 40-some odd miles in 51 minutes, according to Bing 411. That sounds about right. But the service offered me a new route to travel.

 

The service is reportedly a direct competitor to Google’s Goog-411 IVR service, which is similar, but offers more features.

 

Microsoft’s new system comes on the heels of another voice-recognition service launch. Last month, New York City Transit unveiled a service that offers riders directions over the phone. The system, called Trip Planner Voice, helps direct travelers through New York City’s subways and buses. It provides walking distances, fare information and details about scheduled connections, the New York Times reports.

 

The system, which was developed by Speech solutions provider Nuance Communications and Unified Communications (News - Alert) and contact center software provider Aspect, received mixed reviews. Critics panned Trip Planner Voice for the lengthy call and wrong information. Others applaud it for its

 

Since I don’t live in New York, I think I’ll stick with Bing 411. Beyond driving directions and business searches, the system also gives details on sports, stock quotes, travel, weather and movies. Better still, Bing 411 also offers users the scoop on where to find the cheapest gas. (By the way, I can find a gallon of gas in town for $2.76.)

 

I did find one glitch with Microsoft’s system. Bing 411 wasn’t too helpful when it came to traffic. Every time I requested the service, it sent me to the travel menu. No thanks. I don’t want to rent a car. While air travel might be a better option to get me home on a busy Friday, I doubt the airline would swoop down to our TMC headquarters here just to take me home.

 

Oh, well. At least while I wait, I can find the nearest reasonably priced gas station if I need a quick fill-up on the way.