Windows & Interoperability: Microsoft Bing Search Engine Marks First Anniversary

Microsoft first introduced Bing, its search-engine answer to Google, on June 1, 2009. Considered a total revamp of Microsoft's then-flagging attempts in the search space, Bing offered its own take on search-engine staples such as keyword search and maps, in addition to new features, such as specific tabs like Travel and Shopping. Over the past 12 months, Microsoft has made an effort to both add new gizmos and strengthen the core search engine—if only to match Google's own advances. In certain ways, Microsoft's efforts seem to have paid off. While Google continues to dominate in terms of overall searches, Bing has enjoyed strong gains in a number of vertical industry categories such as travel and health. As Bing enters its second year, it seems certain that Microsoft will continue to focus on growth in those verticals—while trying to chip away at Google's sizable lead.