Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer is expected to show off a new paid-search service on Wednesday that will eventually go toe-to-toe with rival Google and supplant partner Yahoo's advertising.
Microsoft on Wednesday plans to introduce a pilot program to sell sponsored search listings, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The improved search engine bears a remarkable resemblance to Google, with Direct Answers linked from Microsoft Encarta being the main edge over competitors.
With Tuesday's US$160 million purchase of Musicmatch, Yahoo sent a clear message that it is determined to be a major player in the fast-growing digital music business, despite its relatively late start.
Microsoft is expected to take its first baby steps on the road to Web search independence on Thursday, with the launch a test version of a homegrown Internet navigation tool and changes to its current search engine.
As the two giants tussle for domination of online advertising dollars, it's increasingly clear that this tug-of-war is really a test of each company's corporate culture.
Internet search leader Google filed to go public on Friday, seeking to raise US$2.7 billion in an unusual auction-style offering that will give the founders rare control over the company.
The software giant updates its corporate Web search technology with in-house software, its latest effort to catch up with innovations in the navigation tools market.
Web portal MSN is testing a new search service that touts faster, tidier results, in what is the latest development in a fast-moving contest to help people find what they're looking for online.
From the capital of Tugo to a Hang Seng IPO, it's on the Web -- if you can only find it. PC Magazine reviews 20 search engines that make the hunt easier.
From the capital of Tugo to a Hang Seng IPO, it's on the Web--if you can only find it. We review 30 search engines that make the hunt easier.
Ben Forta: All about Adobe
Take one ColdFusion veteran and mix in a healthy dose of prolific book writing, and chances are you will end u… Watch it now
Google CEO Eric Schmidt
Google's chief sits down for an extremely rare, wide-ranging interview and discusses Google's two operating sy… Watch it now
Telstra shareholders fear break up
What do Telstra shareholders think of the telco's new CEO David Thodey? And would they support the government'… Watch it now
Can not-so-smart meters help the NBN?
Can the Telco Reform Act be win-win?
Has New Zealand's smiling assassin delivered?
What makes you click?
Tell us for a chance to win a $1,000 GAME gift voucher.
Click here for more.
Win an iPhone 3GS!
Sign up as a ZDNet Australia member during November and you'll go in a draw to win an iPhone 3GS!
Click here to sign up!
Best Laptops
Check out the best laptops here!
Click here for more.