The practice of dialing numbers like “popcorn” or 853-1212 on landlines to hear the current time originates from automated time and temperature services that telephone companies offered before the widespread use of digital clocks and smartphones.
These services began in the early 20th century, initially provided via operator assistance. Later, companies introduced automated voice announcements accessible by dialing specific numbers. For example, in some U.S. regions, “popcorn” corresponded to the phone number 767-2676 (P-O-P-C-O-R-N on the dial pad). Users dialed these mnemonic numbers to connect quickly to the time service.
The time announcements were generated by precise atomic clocks or official timekeeping authorities. Telephone companies maintained these systems to support public needs such as planning appointments or timing calls.
Numbers like 853-1212 functioned similarly in various areas, providing a reliable, easy-to-remember way for users to obtain the official time instantly. These services gained popularity before the internet and mobile devices became common.
Such automated time numbers also included temperature updates in some locations, hence “time and temperature” services. They offered practical, real-time information on demand.
Over time, these services declined. Advances in technology, including smartphones, the internet, and digital clocks, rendered them largely obsolete. However, some communities retained these numbers as a local convenience or tradition into the early 21st century.
In summary, dialing “popcorn,” 853-1212, or comparable phone numbers connected users to automated time announcements. These services bridged a technological gap before modern personal devices carried real-time info.
- Automated time services began early 1900s, initially operator-assisted.
- “Popcorn” and similar mnemonic numbers made dialing easier.
- Numbers like 853-1212 connected to official, precise time sources.
- These services also sometimes included temperature updates.
- Service importance declined with smartphones and internet clocks.
Why did people dial numbers like “popcorn” or 853-1212 on landlines?
These numbers were time or information services provided by phone companies. People dialed them to hear the current time, especially before digital clocks and mobile phones were common.
Where did the idea of dialing words like “popcorn” come from?
Phone numbers using words matched the old telephone keypad letters. “Popcorn” corresponds to 767-2676, making it easier to remember than just digits.
Were these time service numbers the same everywhere?
No, phone companies used different numbers for time or information services depending on regions. 853-1212 was common in some places, while other areas had various numbers.
How did these phone numbers for time services work?
Calling these numbers connected you to automated voice systems that announced the time. They were updated regularly to provide accurate time reports.
Why did these services disappear?
The rise of mobile phones, internet, and digital clocks reduced the need for time-by-phone services. Many phone companies discontinued them as they became obsolete.
