Voicemail!

Voicemail transcription services: It is possible to check messages as texts or emails.

http://cell-phones.suite101.com/article.cfm/voice_mail_transcription_services


This article was posted back in december of 2008, so it is rather recent compared to the last article I posted.
This article tries to explain the positives of using this 'voicemail transcription'. It states how listening to voicemail can be slightly inconvenient(which I agree..I absolutely hate listening to voicemail when I prefer if someone just texts me what they need to say or just leave me a message if it is ABSOLUTELY important..).
"Services that turn voice mail into text are growing in popularity, because smart phones make text messaging and emails easier than finding a quiet area to listen check messages."

The article then states how cell phone interruptions are so common and so intrusive that meetings, movies, classrooms begin with the statement of making sure that your cellphones are turned off. However with the use of voicemail transcription, you would be able to take a peak at your cell phone textmessage which can be seen as being less obtrusive. Transcribed voicemails in emails/text messages allow others to get their message across to those who need it without having to interrupt important business.

There are only about 5 companies that allow voicemail transcription so far, but considering this article was written only less than a year ago, who knows what technology will bring. I personally find that having this type of service available could be very beneficial to many buisness men and woman by allowing them to be able to check their smartphone for an email/textmessage stating what their voicemail was about. I personally hope to see this type of application applied to the smartphones in the near future because maybe one day I may need that type of service myself!