Remember the days when you could pick up the phone, dial 411, and reach a directory assistance operator who would look up a number for you for free? No? Well, perhaps I’m showing my age….

These days, a directory assistance call costs money – last time I called 411 on my cell phone it cost $1.50. This is not a service that I use with any regularity, but because I travel so much there are occasions when I simply must use my cell to find a number. So I was pleased to learn that Google has launched a new FREE directory assistance service called 1-800-GOOG-411. You don’t need a computer, an Internet connection, or even the keypad on your phone or mobile device. GOOG-411 is voice-activated, so you can access it from any phone, in any location, at any time. Here’s how it works:

Dial (1-800) GOOG-411. When prompted, say the city and state, or key in the zip code. Next, you will be asked for the business name or category. You can name a specific company (for example, Holiday Inn Hotel) or just say “hotels.” The service will respond with a numbered list of area hotels; simply respond with the number of your choice and you are instantly connected.

If you are calling from a mobile device, GOOG-411 can even send you a text message with more details and a map. Simply say “Text message” or “Map it.”

Of course, your telephone company may apply usual charges for making a phone call or receiving an SMS, but you will not be charged any additional 411 fee. Way to go, Google.

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