Google Maps has added another feature to their service that can be a real time saver. The "click to call" feature allows users to have a telephone connection with the business they have located on any given Google Map search. For example , if you were looking around town for a car part , the displayed results would have the business name, address, location and the additional "click to call" feature. Clicking this feature connects you to that business via your regular landline or mobile telephone and saves you the time of thumbing through a phonebook. You even have the ability to add each phone number in a saved list for future reference.

How it Works

1. Search for the business type you are looking for in your area ; for example , San Francisco Car Parts
2. Click the "click to call" link for the business you wish to contact
3. Enter your phone number
4. Select "remember this number" if you wish to have the business number stored for future reference
5. Your phone will ring with the business picking up on the other end

The service is free to users and the only charges that may apply are if you choose to have the call come through your mobile phone (normal airtime fees charged by your provider). However even with this in mind , what prevents a user entering someone else's' phone number? From what I can tell you do not even have to sign in with your Google Account to utilize this service. Google's response to this problem:

"Google takes fraud and spamming very seriously. We use technical methods to prevent future prank calls from the same user within a reasonable period of time. You won't be charged for any such calls. Please contact clicktocall-support@google.com if you believe someone is entering your phone number without your permission or knowledge."

Although a seemingly small addition to the list of growing features to Google Maps this can be a huge time saver for people hunting down specific products or services in their area. As with other Google services the Click to Call feature is only currently available to U.S. businesses. For us living north of the 49th parallel we can only hope this feature will becom e available shortly in Canada and elsewhere.