MSN today released a beta version of a new Local Search service, enabling people to retrieve local results from business, residential or local web sites, often accompanied by informative maps and aerial images.
This initial beta release is the first step by MSN toward delivering what they call a "broad local search vision", which will encompass geo-local search, mapping technologies, mobile search, local business and residential databases, and local instant answers related to news, events, movie times and weather.
MSN also announced that the "Virtual Earth" team will join MSN, bringing over 10 years of mapping and geo-location experience, allowing MSN users to search, navigate and explore local information through local search technology.
Christopher Payne, corporate vice president for MSN said,
"We are deeply investing in developing world-leading local search services that precisely deliver the local information consumers care about. We remain committed to continuously improving our search service, and today's MSN Local Search beta release is just the beginning. With the addition of MSN Virtual Earth, we are poised to take local search to the next level."
Starting today, users in the United States will see a new Local category added to the MSN options on MSN.com. When users search for local information, they will receive results from city and region-specific White Pages and Yellow Pages directory information. For example, a local search on "auto mechanics" could bring up listings of nearby mechanics, repair shops and towing companies.
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