Nov
23
Google Tests Click-to-Call
Posted under Web/Tech
Google’s latest experiment is “Google Click-to-Call” which is an opportunity for advertisers and potential customers to get in contact. The way it works is the if you are doing a Google search and you spot a phone icon, that means you can call that company anonymously to ask questions, etc.
I can see the value of Google ads to contact potential clients, but the necessity to call anonymously? Seems strange to me. Personally, I sort of seeing that as “spin” that Google is using to mask the system. In other words, in order for Google to get money for a phone call click, they would have to manage the phone connection and relay.
To explain that to a browsing customer would be a hassle, so put the “privacy” label on it and it somehow makes sense. Otherwise, I just can’t see someone thinking. “Wow, I’d love to order that new Computer game, but that means I’d have to call and they might be able to ID me using caller ID.”
What’s the phone icon on Google search results? How does it work?
We’re testing a new product that gives you a free and fast way to speak directly to the advertiser you found on a Google search results page - over the phone.
Here’s how it works: When you click the phone icon, you can enter your phone number. Once you click ‘Connect For Free,’ Google calls the number you provided. When you pick up, you hear ringing on the other end as Google connects you to the other party. Then, chat away on our dime.
We won’t share your telephone number with anyone, including the advertiser. When you’re connected with the advertiser, your number is blocked so the advertiser can’t see it. In addition, we’ll delete the number from our servers after a short period of time.
Am I charged to connect to an advertiser?
No. Google foots the bill for all calls - local and long-distance. However, if we call a cell phone number, you may incur airtime fees depending on the cell phone plan. Check your cell phone provider for details.
Is this just a way for Google to track me?No. We take your privacy very seriously. Google does not share your telephone number with anyone (without your consent), including the advertiser. When you’re connected with the advertiser, your number is blocked. The advertiser can’t see your phone number.
In addition, we only store your information (including your phone number, date, time, and call length) temporarily for no longer than 4 months after the last time you used the service. Then, we delete your information permanently.
Learn more about our Privacy Policy.
Whose caller ID do I see when connected?The advertiser’s number appears on your caller ID when Google connects you. This way, you can save the merchant’s number for future call-backs.
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Comments
Well this seems ridiculous to me. Perhaps it’s just because of my anti-phone attitude. I see the phone as a time waster for things like this.
I can see the need for instant question and answer, but that can be done in a chat session. I don’t need to talk to this person on the phone. When’s the last time you were on the phone with ANY company, and the person you talked to could answer all your questions promptly anyway?
This is something that I would never, ever use, and it seems to take things a step backwards.
It’s like me going to all my customers and saying “hey. . . I know we’ve spent lots of time and money building an infrastructure for you to send orders, but we now have a brand new courier service so we can pick them up in paper form!”
bahh humbug ;-)