Google Click to Call

Google is testing click-to-call based on the search results. I wrote about this possibility of Google Click-to-call back in January - I even Photoshopped some phone icons next to search results. Anyway, on Google, do a search, click the icon, enter your phone number and Google will connect both legs of the call. Best of all, Google foots the bill - it's on their dime! Very cool! I tried some searches myself but can't seem to get any Google click-to-call search results to appear. Update: Actually it looks like the phone icon only appears within ad-sponsored advertisements. Well that stinks, search-results are much more accurate than advertisements.

I doubt for example I can search for "norwalk pizza delivery" and expect an Adwords ad to display local pizzerias in the Norwalk area. That would require the Norwalk pizzeria owners to pay for an Adword ad to do that. Not likely considering the best pizza I like to eat is typically run by a 70-year old Italian guy who probably doesn't even know how to turn on a computer (but can sure twirl pizza dough!).

Update:
Screenshots from Greg Yardley.


From the Google Click to Call FAQ page:

1. 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.
   
   
2. 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.
   
   
3. 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.
   
   
4. 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.