For years Microsoft has been playing third fiddle to Yahoo and (of course) Google in the Internet search arena, with MSN Search and Live Search failing to gain much traction with Internet users worldwide despite prominent placement within Microsoft’s applications and operating systems. Now, Microsoft is throwing down another gauntlet in the search game with Bing, a new Internet search service that’s intended not only to help users find things, but will also offer tools and features via new “Decision Engine” technology to help users immediately make use of the information they find. Out of the gate, Bing will focus on four main tasks—helping users plan a trip, research a health condition, find a local business, or make a purchase.
