Get Paid From Microsoft To Use Live Search
By: John Vinson
“Desperation is a stinky cologne”, I’m not sure where this line originated, but it’s in one of my favorite movies, Super Troopers. If desperation were a cologne, then Microsoft would be the guy at the party no one could stand to be around, for fear of flaming nostrils. The proof of this desperation can be found in Microsoft’s new “cashback” program they are implementing for Live Search.
I don’t have exact numbers, but it’s safe to say that Google is dominating the search engine business at this point. Ok, so I do have numbers, and they are in favor of Google, which holds about 60% of search engine usage. Microsoft doesn’t like to be a loser, so they are trying to fight back and get some of the market share for themselves. They are retaliating by use of their cashback program, which will give users money back for making online purchases using Live Search.
Yes, you heard correctly. Microsoft will be giving money to people for using a service that is already free. I know I’ve already referenced a movie, but this program reminds me of the Joker’s scheme from the 1989 version of Batman. Let’s hope Bill Gates isn’t going to unleash toxic gases upon us.
In all seriousness, this program makes Microsoft look so transparent, and a bit bullish as well. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all about saving a dollar or two, but at the same time, this seems like some kind of “last resort” plan. Instead of improving upon their engine and giving people better search results, they are going to give them back money for online purchases.
As much as I’m complaining, this idea could very well succeed. If there’s one thing that can pull people away from something they are accustomed to, it’s money. Using Google is like a reflex to me when I use the internet. But saving me $15 on a Wii purchase could very well break that reflex.
Those Wii Prices Are Outrageous…Atleast Microsoft Can Save Me Money If I Get That Desperate