[sehrope]

This isn't new at all. For as far back as I can remember you could dial 555-1212 from any area code and get directory assistance for that area code. There's even a toll free 800 number (1-800-555-1212) which prompts you for the city you'd like.

Haven't used it in a long time (seriously who would when you can search the internet on your smartphone?) but I think it's the same service as 411 minus the $X/min fee (the 800 number version is free, I think the non-800 versions might bill you).

[evacuationdrill]

The area-555-1212 one actually is the most expensive at $3.50 according to Wikipedia [1]. There is toll-free directory assistance (it doesn't say what number) from AT&T, where the 800-number owner pays for any lookups.

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/555-1212