Limbo, Meet MYIA

When Limbo first started the reverse auction thing, I thought it was really cool. I tried it a few times when it was standard rate. Now, it's premium, so I don't do it anymore. But, still, even the name LIMBO (is cool when you win by having the lowest unique bid. So, now there is MYIA. Their website is http://www.myia.com/ and their short code is 72777 - but what does MYIA stand for? It is "My Instant Interaction." Well, ok, whatever. The concept appears to be same as LIMBO. MYIA is a subsidiary of Crossroad Mobile. Again, the website: "So how does MY Instant Auction work? Well it's like an auction and a game of skill rolled into one. In a normal auction the highest bidder normally wins. But, with MYIA, it's the LOWEST Unique Bid that Wins." And it's $1.99 per entry.

Of course, there must be a non-premium sms method to enter. It's the law, I think. So, in the fine print, it says:

(b) Mail Entry: Submit a Mail Entry by sending a handprinted 3x4 postcard with your Bid amount to MYIA., 2323 Bryan Street 18th Floor, Dallas Texas 75202. Handwrite the amount of your Bid in cents without punctuation. For example, if the Bid is $1.93, write 193 Postal Mail delivery specific charges and terms may apply. In accordance with the terms; rules and regulations of your mail delivery service, you are responsible for all applicable charges and fees associated with your Mail Entry. All entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. PT on January 2, 2006.

Hold the phone, entries must be received by January 2, 2006. Something looks wrong. Any one care to investigate. I think Limbo is more upfront and honest about their alternate entry method by phone.