• by November 10, 2004

Apparently tomorrow is the day Microsoft will officially launch a preview version of its search service. The software marketer has let people sample bits and pieces of the technology over the past six months or more, so the Minute is entirely certain exactly what will be different.

Microsoft's MSN has overseen the development and design of the search technology, and has also been working steadily on desktop search tools that will be integrated into the next generation of the Windows operating system, Longhorn.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer earlier this year admitted that the company was behind on search technology development but vowed that it would catch up to take on Google and Yahoo! All three companies are working on customized, personal search tools for the desktop, as well as local search services.

Meanwhile, JupiterResearch today reports that the online travel market in the United States will hit $54 billion by year-end for 23 percent of the travel market. Jupiter estimates that the figure will swell to $91 billion in 2009 for 33 percent of all travel purchased.

Jupiter reports that the purchase of airline tickets represents $23.3 billion in revenue in 2004, while consumers booked $11.6 billion in hotel revenue this year.

Happy and safe travels! And, here's to searching for travel services and booking reservations -- online.