UPDATED Microsoft has unveiled a revamped beta version of MSN Search, which utilizes Redmond's own algorithmic search engine. MSN Search previously provided a front end for Yahoo! results, but last February, Microsoft committed considerable resources to develop in-house technology entirely from scratch.

Touting over 5 billion indexed Web documents, Microsoft says its search results are updated weekly, or even daily. The search can answer direct questions through Microsoft Encarta, and the company has also integrated MSN content such as music into results.

"The release of our beta is a huge step toward delivering the information consumers are looking for online, faster than previous versions of MSN Search," said Yusuf Mehdi, corporate vice president for the MSN Information Services division. "With better results and more powerful search tools, MSN Search is creating a new, higher standard for online search -- one that helps consumers find the information they need, when they need it."

At the time of publishing, the beta search still showed signs of a work in progress, which could hinder Microsoft's ability to outshine rivals. Search queries were simply returning: "This site is temporarily unavailable, please check back soon."

Once the kinks are ironed out, however, the new MSN Search will up the stakes in the battle for search dominance, with Microsoft and Google also looking to bring online searches to the desktop. Google is currently beta testing its Desktop Search, while MSN's similar offering will debut in December.