Microsoft Upgrades Mobile Bing

Microsoft Makes Mobile Bing More Social

Microsoft’s Andy Chu announce the feature upgrades of Bing mobile site and having the UK version of Bing for mobile browsers at SMX Advanced session called “Up Close with the Bing Business Portal".

"Today also marks our expansion across the pond with the launch of Bing for Mobile browse in the UK. In addition to the above updates, customers in the UK will see: a redesigned homepage, enhanced local listings, auto suggest, image search, and driving and walking directions (and real-time transit in London)."

Some of the upgrade will be the "Share on Facebook" which will be rolling in search results and local business listing. Microsoft also enabled a hybrid map/list “split view” for Bing Maps and local listings. Bing also added search history and trending topics on the drop-down search auto-suggest.

Share on Facebook

At least for now Share on Facebook is available on all HTML5 devices, the only piece that is specific to iOS devices is the ability to share apps, and will be soon come out on other platforms. The difference of this Share on Facebook compared to Facebook/Like which was integrated into search result, is that this Share on Facebook allows users to share any search result or listing on their friends on facebook. Now you can share a hotel or restaurant listing to get some reviews or feedback within your network. This kind of process on some point may generate Likes for a business or brand that is being shared around.

Maps/List View

You'll see expandable map at the top whenever you get directions on mobile version of Bing Maps.

- Directions list is reflected in the map image.

- Dynamically changes as you scroll through each step.

- Driving directions, transit and walking directions

Search History and Trending Topics

This upgrade may also generate incrementally more searches for Microsoft.

(Features below is currently available only to US users)

- Drop down search suggest menu on m.Bing with relevant search history and trending topics.

- Your personal history is indicated by a small clock icon

- Trending topics have an associated “magnifying glass” icon next to them

Source: (Search Engine Land: Greg Sterling)