The New York Times is making it even easier for readers to get their up-to-the-minute news with a new text-messaging service for cell phones and other mobile devices. Just text a keyword to "698698" (NYTNYT) and you'll get a return message with the three latest stories from the appropriate section or the most recent column from a favorite columnist. The paper said it will start including the keywords that go with each section.

Since it's a text-based service, the articles will display on any phone or PDA screen. The Times doesn't charge for the service, but you'll still have to pay for the text messages if you don't have an unlimited plan.