Microsoft updates Live Search

Gets vertical overhaul

27 September 2007 9:44 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

Microsoft has updated Live Search (www.live.com) with "improvements to core search technology and deeper advancements in the vertical search areas of entertainment, shopping, local and health".

The 185 million consumers who use the service every month should see improvements in their search findings as a result of the improvements.

Coverage range has been extended with a fourfold increase, understanding query intent has been looked at with the new Live Search "predicting the intent" of the query despite typos while ranking and relevancy processes have also tweaked.

"Proactive changes" to the customer's query sound potentially annoying, while core search "innovation" means a more "vertical" search experience will bring back results on ratings, reviews, locations, photos and videos.

The "Answers" platform has been integrated more into search results for those looking for a quick, specific fact and overall the interface has been given a "cleaner" (read: Google-esque) look.