Looks like the NY Times is testing out a new feature. Users comments have been spotted on the homepage for headliner stories. Silicon Alley Insider caught a screen shot, displaying these comments that show almost as a mini feed or ticker, with reader's comments on the big story. Few have seen these new comments on the homepage, so it hasn't been confirmed if the comments will show for major stories only, or if the Times is simply testing it out to gain some basic feedback from readers.
Either way, it's clear that newspapers and other giants in the printed media industry are trying to continually improve their online hubs. Both the Washington Post and The Economist have made steps to further engage users, with live talks and debates.
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