Microsoft Debuts New Search Engine

REDMOND, Wash. — Software giant Microsoft is officially launching its updated and renamed search engine today. Live Search steps up the company’s search capabilities to capture the market share dominated by Google and Yahoo.

Live Search is Microsoft’s successor to MSN Search and has been in beta testing since March. According to Nielsen/Net Ratings, Microsoft is a distant third in U.S. search engine popularity.

The stated goal of Live Search is to help people find, view, organize and preview search results more efficiently. New features include search preview, scoping tools, a search slider bar that increases the level of result information and smart scrolling that makes search results viewable on a single page.

“We’re unveiling a range of innovations that deliver an outstanding level of power and simplicity to search,” Christopher Payne, corporate vice president of Windows Live Search, said. “Combined with the rich browsing and integrated searching services delivered by Windows Live Toolbar and Live.com, the new search service offers customers the next generation of unified services today.”

Windows Live Search makes it easier for users to search across different categories including an image search, news search, RSS feeds, email search and local search.

Microsoft’s new search tool is part of an overall, companywide re-branding effort of its free products and services. Along with Live Search, the company is releasing Windows Live Toolbar, which will enable search queries from any web page. Live.com also has been launched that functions as a customizable home page where users can feature content they select in a custom layout.

Also launching today is Live Local Search in the U.S. and the U.K. This offering shows detailed images of local geography based on searches for addresses or local businesses.

While the rollout of new and enhanced services puts Google and Yahoo on notice, Microsoft might have a larger marketing problem on the horizon. Some market analysts said that Microsoft has failed to distinguish its new services from competitors’, and needs a more efficient marketing push or a tie-in strategy with more recognizable products.

“In general, I don’t think a lot of consumers outside of computer enthusiasts are aware of Windows Live or know what it is,” Matt Rosoff, and independent researcher, said. “In the end, users need easy access to Microsoft’s search engine.”

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

FSC Drops Florida AV Lawsuit in Wake of SCOTUS Decision

A U.S. district court judge granted on Tuesday a motion by Free Speech Coalition to dismiss the trade association’s lawsuit over Florida’s age verification law, a case that had been on hold pending the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the constitutionality of state AV laws.

Ukrainian President Responds to Porn Legalization Petition

President Volodymyr Zelensky responded Tuesday to an OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine, stating that he would wait for the legislative process to play out “in accordance with established procedure.”

Only Tax Deductions Joins Pineapple Support as Sponsor

Adult industry accounting firm Only Tax Deductions has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

Adult Empire Launches 'Conversations' Podcast Series

Adult Empire has launched a new official podcast series hosted by Nicole Chappelle and Charlie.

Sex Work CEO Launches 'Teams Plan' for AI Assistant

Sex Work CEO has introduced the new Teams Plan for its AI-powered, NSFW text generator, GPTease.

2025 XBIZ Amsterdam Website Launches With Call for Speakers

XBIZ is pleased to announce that the website for its annual European conference, XBIZ Amsterdam, is now live.

NC Governor Vetoes Bill Targeting Adult Industry, Override Possible

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein today vetoed a bill imposing new regulations that adult industry observers have warned could push adult websites and platforms to ban most adult creators and content.

25,000 Sign Petition to Legalize Pornography in Ukraine

An OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine has amassed the 25,000 signatures required for official consideration by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

WannaCollab Joins Pineapple Support as Supporter-Level Sponsor

WannaCollab has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

FSC Unpacks SCOTUS Age Verification Ruling in Webinar

The Free Speech Coalition conducted a public webinar Tuesday to help adult industry stakeholders understand the Supreme Court’s recent decision in FSC v. Paxton, and its potential implications.

Show More