Microsoft Kumo Search Engine To Rival Google and Yahoo

By: Mary Smith
Staff Writer
Published: Mar 6, 2009

Microsoft Kumo is a new Internet search engine that is currently undergoing tests. The software giant hopes it will compete with Google and Yahoo.

Microsoft Corp surprised everyone on Tuesday when it publicly confirmed it will soon launch a new Internet search engine called Kumo. Company engineers and employees are currently testing the new search site and technologies. The new search engine is based on semantic technology and advanced ranking mechanisms.

"There's a good deal of excitement brewing over this test, both internally and externally, which we're always glad to see," Microsoft Live Search general manager Mike Nichols said in a statement.

Microsoft's new search engine gets underway. Kumo might become the new re-branding of the company's Internet search.

Microsoft Kumo was rumored as a new search for Microsoft, but no one from the company confirmed the plans up to the present moment. It is not known whether or not the company will replace its Live Search model with the newer Kumo. The domain name was for testing purposes only, but Nichols said Microsoft is considering a re-branding of Live Search.

"Search. We're using the Kumo brand and URL for this test experience to make sure employees understand they're in a test experience. We believe this will encourage more active feedback. As for re-branding it's something we're still considering," Nichols said.

Google still has more than 60 percent of the US online search market. Yahoo is currently in second place with 21 percent, Live Search in third place with 8.5 percent.

Live Search is currently in third place, while Google Inc is in first place, and Yahoo Inc is second place. Starting a new search engine from scratch is a bit risky, especially since Microsoft spent so much time and money on Live Search. However, Kumo just might be what it needs to do if it plans to tackle Google and Yahoo.

Kumo might also help Microsoft with its advertising model. The company is trying very hard to find its role in the marketing place to run search ads, but is unable to compete with Google and Yahoo. This was one of the most important factors on why Microsoft wanted to purchase the Yahoo search unit.

Google has more than 60 percent of the US online search market. Yahoo is currently at 21 percent. Microsoft trails with 8.5 percent.