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Microsoft broadens new search engine, replacing Yahoo on MSN
website
Monday, February 07, 2005
Microsoft Corp. is formally launching its new Internet search engine,
several months after its debut in test form.
Beginning Tuesday, Microsoft's own search engine will replace the
Yahoo search technology that has been used on Microsoft's MSN website.
But Yahoo's technology will be still be used for the "sponsored"
listings that companies pay for, and that appear separately alongside
the main search results.
Previously, Microsoft's search system was mainly available on a
separate, test site.
After admitting that it initially missed the boat by not producing
its own search technology, Redmond-based Microsoft has worked feverishly
to produce a proprietary search engine to compete with Google Inc.
and others.
Yusuf Mehdi, a corporate vice-president with Microsoft's MSN online
division, said the company has taken suggestions from people who
used the test version to improve some functions, such as a feature
that answers questions using the company's Encarta encyclopedia.
But he conceded that Microsoft still had work to do on a "search
near me" function that attempts to find things, such as a plumber
or a Chinese restaurant, that are geographically close to the user.
Mehdi said Microsoft still needs to complete deals with online
yellow pages providers to make it more likely that the user will
actually find the closest restaurant or plumber.
Microsoft is also eliminating some text advertisements and other
material from its MSN website, claiming that the new site will load
up to 50 per cent faster and have a cleaner look that is easier
to navigate.
But the website will still have some ads and contain plenty of
links to news, gossip and other Microsoft businesses.
Rival Google has won customers in part by offering a minimalist
search site devoid of ads.
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