Embarq Launches Text-to-Voice SMS Messaging Service

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6:25 am on November 27, 2007 | Category: Telecom Services, Telephone, Wireless, Messaging

U.S. regional telephone carrier, Embarq, has started rolling out a new “text-to-landline” service capable of translating text messages, including acronyms, into voice messages.

The new services has a two-way component, allowing message recipients to respond with a voice message or one of five pre-programmed text responses, including “yes,” “no,” and “where are you?”

“The new text-to-landline service is another way that Embarq is integrating its portfolio of services,” said the carrier’s senior vice president of product development, Dennis Huber. “As the line between the home phone and wireless phone becomes blurred, and as convergence takes on new meaning, Embarq wants to give customers simple, yet effective ways of communicating that fit into their daily lives.”

The text-to-landline service translates common SMS acronyms into understandable voice messages. LOL, for example is automatically translated to “laugh out loud,” while BRB translates to “be right back,” and B4N comes out as “bye for now.”

The service is available to users of Embarq’s growing wireless offering. It charges fees based on standard mobile-to-mobile text messaging charges.

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I am trying to receive and read a text message that was sent to me and I was told I would have to do that through my PC…I need help!

Comment by Reita Fuson — December 27, 2007 #