Access to almost anything is just a phone call away, thanks to Tellme, a service that was just launched nationally after a three-month test on the West Coast.

Just dial the toll-free number, (800) 555-TELL, and go through voice-activated menus to get whatever news and data services you want.

For instance, call and say, “News.” Then, say, “Business,” and you’ll get a 1-minute recording of the Wall Street Journal’s daily roundup of the Dow, Nasdaq, winners and losers . . . Other words to play with: Sports, Soap Operas, Movies, Lottery, Taxi, Blackjack, Airlines, Weather and Horoscope.

Within this system, say, “Phone booth,” and you’ll be able to make a free, 2-minute, long-distance call anywhere in the U.S.

But unless you’re really out of touch, or feel you need to know something immediately, you’ll probably find the information offered a bit trivial.

RATING: 1 out of 4 stars

RETAIL PRICE: Free

REQUIREMENTS: Phone

RESEARCH: Tellme.com