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Answering machines

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Coldicote | 22:08 Thu 21st Jun 2012 | Technology
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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.
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If you are happy with 1571, then you are right.

However you cannot see easily if there is a message left on 1571.
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
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.
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?
Question Author
Useful points here thank you.
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