- Image by labanex.com via Flickr
We have all been patiently waiting to see how the Microsoft and Yahoo services pan out once the merger starts. Up until this point, everything was up in the air with no real time line in place.
According today’s press release from Yahoo, the first completion dates released is for algorithmic (or organic) search. They are hoping to have the transitional period completed at the end of 2010. They also have set up a site, Search Alliance, which will include important dates, FAQ’s, and also provide a site for feedback. One thing is forsure, they are staying away from the word “merger” and using “alliance” as a buzz word.
Not much has been said about the inner workings of the new system, but one thing is for sure, you can expect big changes. The two search engines (Bing & Yahoo) will continue to offer separate search experiences and both sound like they will be powered by Microsoft and the Pay Per Click will be powered by Ad Center.
Yahoo’s resources will be dedicated to high-end advertisers.
From Search Alliance FAQ - Yahoo! will provide Microsoft with an exclusive 10-year license to certain Yahoo! search technologies. Yahoo! will also deliver a differentiated search experience for its users by innovating around the listings it receives from Microsoft by integrating Yahoo! content, shortcuts and tools.
I’m really looking forward to seeing how the merger turns out