Free 411: Help "On The Go"

Google and Microsoft both launched their free directory assistance services this week. Google's GOOG-411 (1-800/466-4411; or 1-800-GOOG-411) came out of beta on Sunday. The next day Microsoft announced its own free directory assistance service, Live Search 411 (800/225-5411; that's 1-800-CALL-411). Each offers an attractive alternative to paying the nearly $2 that most mobile carries charge for the service.

Both services use voice recognition and menu prompts to guide you to the state, city, business, and the phone number you're looking for. (GOOG-411 also repeats what you say, which is why it took longer than Live Search 411.) They also both give you the option to have a text message of the street address and phone number sent to your cell phone; if you're using a smart phone equipped with a compatible Web browser, you can click a link to a map that helps you pinpoint the business's location.