History of Toll Free Numbers
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Modern toll free numbers have become synonymous with numerous business operations and business identities. These numbers are used by corporations, governments and NGOs across the world and have facilitated several customer-business interactions.
Through this video let us trace the history of early toll free numbers and how they have changed the world around us.
What are toll free numbers?
Toll free numbers, also known as 1800 numbers, are totally free to call for customers! Since the charges are borne only by the receiver, customers are all the more encouraged to reach out to the business.
How did toll free numbers emerge?
Toll free numbers began as collect calls. Here, the call would be dialled through an operator who would confirm with the receiver if he was willing to accept charges and then, accordingly, connect the call.
Zenith call in 1950s
The next change came in the form of Zenith calls. The term zenith or free phone signaled the operator that the call was to be billed to the receiving party. It was still a labour-intensive and time-consuming task.
Incoming Wide Area Telephone Service (inWATS) in 1967
In the US, AT&T launched InWATS as an upgrade to collect and zenith calls. Companies had to pay a monthly subscription fee to opt for the service. However, it was an expensive endeavor and suitable only for large companies.
The emergence of affordable toll free numbers in the 1980s-90s
With the emergence of economical microwave communications technology and computerised switching system, toll free numbers become accessible to small and medium businesses.
Modern toll free numbers
Today in India, toll free numbers are analogous with 1800 numbers and are used by businesses of all sizes. Companies also have the option to opt for vanity numbers with high recall value, thus improving their overall brand image.
To know more about toll free numbers, read our blogs
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