Microsoft Will Offer Search Customers Cash

Having largely abandoned its bid to buy, in the form of Yahoo, a significant presence in the Internet search business, Microsoft now will give customers money back when they buy items through its Live.com search portal, the Wall Street Journal reports. To be made official today, the move makes clear Microsoft isn't giving up on its search ambitions.

Industry leader Google holds a significant edge on Microsoft, which is currently running third behind Yahoo, but looking to "Live Search cashback" to help close the gap. Customers using the service will need to create a free account and shop through the website; vendors include Home Depot, Barnes & Noble, Circuit City, and Oakley sunglasses. (More Microsoft stories.)