Atlanta papers get three-digit phone number approval p.

By: Ann Marie Kerwin

Ruling opens a new way for newspapersto offer readers expanded news and
advertising using Touch-Tone telephones
COX ENTERPRISE'S FLAGSHIP papers, the Atlanta Journal and Constitution, have received permission from the Georgia Public Service Commission to provide information to callers via a three-digit number, similar to the 411 and 911 services used by the phone companies.
The ruling from the commission opens a whole new way for newspapers to offer readers expanded news and advertising using Touch-Tone phones.
The Palm Beach Post in Florida, also owned by Cox Enterprises, began offering three-digit telephone information service to its readers on March 7. In both instances, Southern Bell will provide the newspapers with a similar billing system it uses for its 411 service (E&P, March 27, P. 23).
The Journal and Constitution currently offer information services using seven-digit numbers usually having a 222 prefix. The advertiser-supported services include stock quotes, sports scores, weather reports and soap opera updates.
Under the three-digit service, callers will pay a "modest charge," said publisher Dennis Berry. The cost per call has not yet been determined. The charge will appear on the caller's Southern Bell phone bill, just as directory-assistance charges do now.
Berry said that the new service will be used to let readers obtain additional information by voice or fax from news stories and advertisements. Classified and retail ads could be available on the electronic service before they are published in the newspaper and could stay in the data base for extended periods. Subscribers will also have the option of selecting those informational items of most interest to them and have those items constantly updated and immediately conveyed by voice or fax when the three-digit number is called.