Can Microsoft topple Google in the Search Engine Stakes?

here are some interesting developments going on with Microsoft ramping up it’s efforts in a personlised search engine by launching its Beta Windows Live. I’m not sure if Windows Live is set to take over Microsoft’s existing MSN search engine but it appears it will as Windows Live incorporated the rollout of Microsoft’s own Pay Per Click advertising no doubt aiming at stealing away some of Googles market share. Windows Live also allows you to customise the home page so that you can have your local weather, news headlines etc. Also Windows Live has a few options for users where online integration of emails, word processing etc. linking with your local Microsoft Office software so you have a seamless and portable experience. I haven’t tried it but it looks interesting to say the least with the future moving toward online based software as we’ve seen with companies like SalesForce and their online CRM software.

Everybody is wondering if Google is running out of steam with investors not seeing the value in holding on to shares in Google as their stock price continues to slide down from it’s high of $US475.11 to it’s current price of $US343. However Google is renowned for not following typical growth strategies and often finding innovative ways to stay ahead of the pack. Microsoft’s chief Bill Gates isn’t disillusioned commenting that Google still has a couple of years of bliss left in the tank.

It is also alleged that a blogger found information in a Google slide presentation stating that Google is planning to offer unlimited storage for users to store emails, images, etc. so maybe Google is planning their own version of a fully personalised search engine.

Apparently Google has also embarked on a deal to install an application called Google desktop and possible two other applications on desktops and laptops from PC maker Lenovo. Google has also acquired the company Upstartle which owns Writely, a browser based word processor.

I don’t think that Google has run out of steam yet and if the past is any indication of the future then you can bet Google will be around for sometime whiles other big fish like Microsoft will be nipping at their heels all the way.