[comp.dcom.telecom] Phone Tells You Who's Calling?

uri@arnor.watson.ibm.com (08/16/89)

Hello, everyone!

	Gotta question.

	Is is possible to find out who actually is calling you
	when the phone's ringing?

	1) Is it legal (well, I can't see any reasons why not)?

	2) Is such a phone available ANYWHERE on the market (i.e.
	   can I buy one)?

	As I see it, ideally it should have a small screen, where
	the number you're called from is displayed. Nice feature,
	isn't it?

	Regards,
	Uri.

<Disclaimer>

[Moderator's Note: The service you refer to is Calling Party ID, and it
will become available nationally once the telcos succeed in overcoming
the objections of those people who believe their own right to privacy
includes the right of making telephone calls anonymously if they desire.
Presently, the service is available in New Jersey and a few other selected
locations, primarily in the eastern United States. See the first message
in this issue of the Digest for a discussion of the legal objections. And
yes, the terminal has a little screen, and it is a *great* feature.  PT]