While the news of Google’s new 411 service is a few days old, I think it’s worthwhile to tell you a little about it. Why exactly do I like this new product from Google? No not simply because it’s from Google (Apple would be another story ;)). It’s because, unlike other 411 services, it’s completely free. Seriously, totally free.

And sorry to all the UK readers out there, Google is only offering the service in the US for right now. Hopefully it will expand to other countries soon, though.

Once you dial 1-800-GOOG-411, you’ll hear a computerized voice and get something like this:
Computer: Calls recorded for quality — What city and state?
Me: Washington DC
Computer: What business name?
Me: Au Bon Pain
Computer: repeats what I said in a hilarious way, really, it’s amusing, try it yourself.
Computer: Starts telling you the results, you can press the number of the result to:
a) hear more details
b) get connected
c) get a free text message sent with those details

You pretty much get the gist of it, right? And really, you never ever talk to a real live person, and honestly, I think the results are just as good. While I said a specific chain of restaurants, you can also give a general category like Italian or pizza.

Oh, and one more time, this service is completely free. You won’t see any $1.75 charge on your phone bill for getting a simple phone number anymore.

Remember, it’s 1-800-GOOG-411.

Google Labs Page