But actually you're not. A service called "Dial Directions" allows you to call a number using your cellular phone. When you get a response, you simply say your location (address or intersection) and where you want to go. The service then sends you an instant text message describing turn-by-turn how to get to the destination.
To gain access you just dial DIR-ECT-IONS (347) 328-4667. You only get charged the standard carrier fee for the text message. However, the message includes an advertisement. According to TWICE, Dial Directions now provides service in nine cities such as Chicago, Dallas, Washington, San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles. The service expects to go nationwide in a few months.
Directions come from mapQuest.com. The service also provides the user with directions to the nearest Starbucks (a necessity!) or Home Depot, restaurant, gas station, etc., hundreds of chains. In addition, events organizers can get the service to provide directions to their event as long as they refer people to the Dial Directions service.
Our take? Paper maps, again, fall unused in the backseat.