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Google Voice update adds short code support, warns you when you text 911
An update to Google Voice today brings a useful, if not earth-shattering, new feature: support for SMS short codes. If your primary phone number is the one associated with your Google Voice account, this means you'll finally be able to use these codes for online banking and other services without your message showing up as sent from your carrier number. Today's update also adds a warning message whenever you type the 911 short code -- a handy safeguard, if you ask us. Nab the Android app update via the source link below.
Subway's sarnies get shortcode ordering in NYC
If you've a hankering for one of Subway's finest come noon-time and find yourself in the 212 or 646 area (New York City) it's only a text away. All you need to do to get started is set yourself up at the Subway Now site with a shop near you, your credit card details, set up a list of numbered favorite sandwiches, and get your hunger ready. Ordering is done by simply texting "menu" to Subway's shortcode and then your favorite list will be returned, reply with your chosen item and you'll get confirmation and a pickup time. Where's the benefit in all this texting you ask? When you arrive at your chosen locale, you can skip the line, the wait, and even having to fork out any cash as it gets charged right to your card.[Via IntoMobile]
Russian state-run liquor store to authenticate vodka with SMS
In a bid to cut down on knockoff vodka -- yeah, "Keepin't real fake, the drunk edition" -- a state-run liquor store in Russia named Rosspirtprom will verify if your booze is legit based on the bottle's serial number. All a conscientious drinker needs to do is text the number on the bottle to a special SMS short code and you'll be hit back with a reply to let you know if your drink of choice is legit or not. Apparently responsible for 40,000 deaths a year, dodgy vodka can be loaded with cologne, antifreeze, and even pure alcohol, and while we don't see the harm in the pure alcohol bit, we assume excessive use could lead to problems.[Via textually.org]
