Microsoft search results land inside Facebook

It's hardly unexpected, but Facebook has integrated Microsoft's Live Search into its site.

As part of a deal announced in July, users can now search the Web using Microsoft's search engine without leaving Facebook. Of course, as Mashable points out, there are lots of other ways to search the Internet without leaving Facebook (say, using the Google Toolbar).

Although it's garden variety search today, there are some interesting possibilities--and also some nightmarish scenarios--one can imagine down the road, when one combines search with social networking.

The real question, for now, is how much of a boost Microsoft gets from being inside Facebook. It's clearly a branding-and-awareness plum, but it's not clear how much actual search traffic and revenue will be generated.

Also, since all the searches take place inside Facebook, it's not even clear whether Microsoft will get a direct increase in search share numbers.

[JCPayne]

My condolences to all Facebook users everywhere RIP Facebook.

[maverick_nick]

You're a pea brain!

[TV James]

I don't understand... what is there to search inside Facebook except users and applications and groups? Shouldn't people be going to Google if they want to search the internet?

[Harrison912]

I typically use FaceBook to raise awareness for my safety and security products and web site. I think having the ability to search the web while on FaceBook will help my friends go to my site to shop when I mention a product that might be helpful to them. They can visit and then quickly go back to their social activities. I think they will be more willing to go shopping while they are socializing. Sounds good to me!