Morse code trumps SMS in head-to-head speed texting combat

Okay, the world title for fastest text messaging is still raging in the streets. The victor in the most recent contest was a bit of a dark horse — 93-year-old telegraph operator Gordon Hill delivered a resounding ass-whoopin' to his rival, 13-year-old Brittany Devlin, using Morse Code. Of course, Mr. Hill does have nigh on 80 years of practice under his belt, which was enough to help him triumph even despite Brittany's liberal use of texting slang (Mr. Hill transmitted the chosen phrase verbatim). The showdown was sponsored by the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney, Australia, and the rivals had to transmit the following message: "Hey, girlfriend, you can text all your best pals to tell them where you are going and what you are wearing." Damn straight! Screw the T9, Engadget's switching over to Morse from now on.

[Via textually]

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:21AM]

its cool

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:21AM]

This is awesome stuff. Way to go Hams.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:21AM]

I saw that showdown on Jay Leno, and all I can say is PUHLEEASE. The guy doing the SMS obviously wasn't using his T9 dictionary, or he's not that fast.

I tried it myself after I found out what the phrase they were supposed to enter was, and I was faster.

I use my T9, and I challenge ANYONE with Morse code to top me on speed.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:21AM]

I am trying to conduct a different study on SMS / Text Messaging. Could you please help me?

Looking for T9 text messaging users in Chicago!

We are conducting a study in downtown Chicago in August. If you are interested, please email us at: [e-mail]

Please reply with the brand and model of your mobile phone AND please also include your daytime contact telephone number.

Each participant will be paid $75 for a 1 hour session.

If you qualify, I will call you and take you through the screening process. You will be required to bring the phone to the session.

The study is for market research only, and no sales of any kind will be involved. If you feel this study is better suited to a colleague or friend, please feel free to pass on this information.

Thanks!!!

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 19th 2005 1:21AM]

I am trying to conduct a different study on SMS / Text Messaging. Could you please help me?

Looking for T9 text messaging users in Chicago!

We are conducting a study in downtown Chicago in August. If you are interested, please email us at: [e-mail]

Please reply with the brand and model of your mobile phone AND please also include your daytime contact telephone number.

Each participant will be paid $75 for a 1 hour session.

If you qualify, I will call you and take you through the screening process. You will be required to bring the phone to the session.

The study is for market research only, and no sales of any kind will be involved. If you feel this study is better suited to a colleague or friend, please feel free to pass on this information.

Thanks!!!