Live Search toolbar packaged with Java downloads
Tuesday, 11, Nov 2008 10:47
Microsoft has signed an agreement with Sun Microsystems to offer those downloading the Java Runtime Environment the chance to also obtain the Live Search Toolbar.
Effective immediately, the agreement applies to US-based Internet Explorer users and will allow those who download the toolbar to have direct access to Live Search from their browser.
The toolbar also offers links to news, entertainment and sports content on the MSN network, as well as access to Windows Live Hotmail and Messenger.
"With the vast array of Java software-based web applications that are downloaded every month, this deal will expose Live Search to millions more internet users and drive increased volume for our search advertisers," said Yusuf Mehdi, senior vice-president of the online audience business for Microsoft.
The agreement came after Google dropped Sun's StarOffice from the Google Pack, a collection of various web applications from the search engine and third parties.
According to PC Pro, this may be due to Google wishing to promote its own range of online office applications to consumers.