(2004-02-18) Yahoo Dumps Google

Yahoo replaced Google with their own new Search Engine technology. In a surprising move, Yahoo isn't replacing Google with Inktomi. Rather, the company has developed a brand new search engine, drawing on the lessons learned from what the company calls the "critical mass" of search engineering talent that it has brought together through hiring and acquisitions, as well as investment in infrastructure and product quality. Phil Ringnalda notes No matter how good Yahoo!'s search technology is, you're never going to know who got there by being a good result for your search, and who got there by buying their way in, in any one of a number of ways that someone can pay to be included. It's not whether they're included, it's whether their rank is then boosted - Yahoo should really clarify this.

It's good to see competition for the Google Monoculture. And I guess better Yahoo than MSN or AOL. I'd like to see a new player, though...

Mar3 update on issue of paid placement.