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June 17, 2008
Microsoft to Build Search Technology Center in Europe
Ever since the Yahoo! acquisition deal fell through, many have wondered what Microsoft will do to make headway in the search market. Shortly after, they launched Cashback, which seemed to indicate a dedication to build search internally. Then Bill Gates said that one of his post-retirement projects would be seach. Today, Microsoft is showing its commitment to developing Live Search with an announcement to build a Search Technology Center in Europe.
"Today Microsoft has 68 percent reach to Internet users throughout Europe through our online assets and strengths in display advertising; however, we're not yet where we'd like to be in search in this critical geography," said Kevin Johnson, president of the Platforms and Services Division at Microsoft. "Success in search in Europe is paramount, and we see the investment in this new Search Technology Center as an important step in doubling down on our long-term investments."
Though no city was named, Microsoft said the European center will be modeled after their Search Technology Center in Beijing. Additionally, engineers may work from multiple locations to contribute to the search technology efforts conducted at the European hub.
"Searchers have different expectations and experiences in every geography in the world, so we believe it is critical to make deep investments in physical locations in multiple markets to ensure that we're applying the best local expertise to our research and development efforts," said Satya Nadella, senior vice president of the Search, Portal and Advertising Group at Microsoft. "We're already doing some great work in Europe in the enterprise search space through our January 2008 acquisition of Fast Search & Transfer SA, and we're looking forward to opening the European Search Technology Center to further our investments."
What do you think about Microsoft's announcement? Do you think they have what it takes to develop a more robust search product? Leave a comment and let us know.
Posted by Nathania Johnson on June 17, 2008 8:59 AM
Comments
Sebastian June 17, 2008 11:51 AM
I like Microsoft doggy resistance in trying to make their online presence stronger. I still believe search is in its infancy and there is still much ground to discovered. Microsoft just had to keep fighting and believing that they will unearth that priceless gem that will break the Google's monopoly even though right now the tide is against them: Microsoft Online Future: Forecast Hazey (http://www.internetevolution.com/author.asp?section_id=466&doc_id=152918&F_src=flftwo)
jamalystic June 17, 2008 2:04 PM
I don't believe Microsoft will come anywhere near Google in the search market, the Yahoo buyout was a bust and I do not believe that Microsoft has it in them at this point in time to start from scratch!
New Millennium July 4, 2008 12:51 PM
Google 67%
Yahoo 20%
MSN 7%
Ask 4%
These are market share for search engines, Microsoft can not compete with Google period!
Your Seo Firm July 30, 2008 2:43 PM
If Microsoft wants to become relevant in the search market, they have to invest as much as Google as a minimum. It's difficult to tell if this announcement will change something to the better, but I think it's clear that without this, Microsoft's search market share will NOT improve.