‘Bing… The better way to Google’

There was quite a bit of buzz a few months ago when Microsoft re-branded their ‘Live’ search to ‘Bing’. Bing, as you probably know, was Microsoft’s attempt at making a search ‘verb’ to rival Google. TechRadar asked:

Will you, as Microsoft wishes, ‘verb up’ and use the word ‘Bing’ to denote searching for something on the internet, much as we have all got used to using Google as a verb?

A few months on, I think the answer is still a resounding no.

I haven’t heard anyone say they ‘Binged something’, nor have I been asked to ‘Bing something’ for someone.

Which is why when I came across this video, I couldn’t help but laugh.

Like writing with a Biro, wiping your nose with a Kleenex or Hoovering the house, you Google something.

I think the video sums up succinctly the futility of Microsoft trying to gain ground on Google by attempting to become part of ‘everyday speech’ / an ‘everyday expression.’

It’s a valiant attempt, but in the end a losing battle for any brand to try and fight (even if that brand is Microsoft).

On the day Bing launched, an acronym made its rounds on the internet that got a lot of laughs.

Bing: but it’s not Goggle.

That won’t get old.

Useful links:

• LMGTFY – Let me Google that for you
• Bing vs. Google – Split screen search of both search engines
• Top 10 Funniest Google Suggest Results
• New Google Caffeine: A Detailed Test of the New Google