Audible just released a new audio e-book application for BlackBerry smartphones, allowing readers to sample, purchase, stream, and download over 60,000 titles to the handy device.

The free application works with BlackBerry Curve, Pearl, 8800, Bold, and Storm devices. Users also receive a free copy of Thomas Friedman's "Hot, Flat, and Crowded" when they download the application.

Here's more information about signing up: "There are two ways to install Audible for BlackBerry--Send a TXT message with the word 'blackberry' to 35620. Browse to www.audible.com/bb in your BlackBerry web browser." (Via Publishers Weekly)