Answering machines

[Coldicote]

My rather old cordless twin-phones have given a lot of trouble lately and I intend to replace them. Most of the adverts include answering machines, but what is the point of them? If I'm not available to answer, a caller can leave a message on BT Answer 1571. Suggestions welcome - the simpler the better.

[Hopkirk]

If you are happy with 1571, then you are right.

However you cannot see easily if there is a message left on 1571.

[Buenchico]

Unlike Call Minder (for which you have to pay a fee), BT's1571 service doesn't allow you to personalise the outgoing message. So, for example, you can't record "Please try my mobile phone; the number is . . . "

1571 also records only 10 messages, which are only stored for 20 days. (If you go away on holiday, a caller might be able to leave a message or it might get deleted before you return).

Further, most answering machines allow you to access your messages from any other phone (by calling your home number and entering a PIN), so you can pick up messages left on the machine from your mobile phone. 1571 doesn't provide such a facility.

Chris

[wildwood]

Our answerphone will flash and beep every minute when there is a message on it. , so we know instantly when we come home or inside from down the back.

If you want it simpler, you may choose to divert home calls to your mobile after 5 rings or whatever.

[Zeuhl]

Isn't 1571 only available if you are still with BT?

Why the heck would anyone do that? Other than an eccentric desire to waste money?

[Coldicote]

Useful points here thank you.