Bing.com - A New Search Engine Arrives

Presented by Microsoft, Bing is a new search alternative that has just surfaced as an open beta to the general public. It comes hot on the heels of Wolfram Alpha, another project that while not exactly a “search engine” itself was regarded and discussed as that by many.

Bing, on the other hand, is a true search engine. It lets you crawl the web and look for images, videos, news and maps on the spot. A query produces results arranged topically – if you look up “Dune” you will have access to information appertaining the movie, Wikipedia articles, links to online retailers where you can procure Herbert’s books and so forth. That is nothing new. Moreover, the top slots of that particular query where not actually occupied by anything related to the popular sci-fi work – they were actually taken by a footwear retailer. The one interesting aspect is that by moving your pointer to the right-hand side of each result a sub-menu is produced highlighting relevant items within that result, along with relevant searches. Think of it as a sort of guided navigation. It works particularly well when shopping online, as you can pick different brands at given prices effortlessly.

Note that three different versions of Bing are available, and depending on your actual location the results will differ greatly. Bear that in mind whenever you carry out a search, and change the page accordingly.

It is a bit difficult to compete with Google when it comes to the search market. Wolfram has a credibility problem on its hands, and other projects like Blekko have chosen to go as quietly as possible. I advice you to give Bing a visit and throw some curveballs at it. As it stands, it might score a homerun or not. When it starts keeping a batting average, it might make others look over their shoulders. For the time being, it still has some way to go.

“Find what you're looking for and a whole lot more.”

Those who are always looking for search alternatives are certain to give it a try.

When is the next major update scheduled for?