Verizon's new 411 System fools puny humans

Turing test, anyone? Verizon's new 411 service is about to launch with "Darby," an automated directory assistance system being introduced in New York this month. The system uses California voice-actress Darby Bailey "one of the best voice-actors in the world for telephone applications." (How's that for job security?) Callers who dial the 411 service and ask for a listing are given their response in her voice. The system has been so good callers frequently don't realize that they're not talking to a real human being. Don't feel bad – bet you didn't know Engadget was run completely by robots, either.