Microsoft Gives Live Local a New Home

Microsoft flipped the switch on Windows Live Local late Thursday night, replacing its Maps and Directions product with the new service that is powered by Virtual Earth. The former product, which was based on the company's MapPoint technology, was beginning to show its age in light of newer products from Google and Ask.com.

Maps and Directions is not completely gone, however, as Microsoft has allowed visitors to opt to use the older product if they wish. In a welcome message to returning users, the Redmond company boasted about the new and improved features of the product, including new maps, "Birds Eye" imagery, and customizable printing options.