Microsoft launches beta version of new MSN search

The global beta version of MSN Search is available today for public use in the United States, and worldwide in 26 markets and 11 languages from local MSN Web sites.

The new MSN Search provides answers to direct questions in plain English. In addition, the Search Near Me feature automatically provides information and resources that are close to the user's location, reducing the time needed to find geographically relevant information and eliminating the need to go through thousands of links. Finally, searching for news, images or music is fully integrated into the new user experience.

At the heart of the new MSN Search is a new search engine, built over the past two years on Microsoft technology, that improves search results by offering consumers a vast index of information, based on more than 5 billion Web documents.

A feature called Search Builder allows users can customize search results by emphasizing or de-emphasizing certain search criteria, such as specific sites or domains, countries, regions, or languages. Consumers who want to apply specific criteria to their searches can visit a menu of adjustable on-screen dials for each criterion.