Software giant, Microsoft Corp., has launched a beta version of Windows Live(TM) Local, an
online local search and mapping service that combines unique bird's-eye
imagery with advanced driving directions, Yellow Pages and other local search
tools. Powered by the Virtual Earth mapping and location platform, Windows Live(TM) Local, gives users useful new ways to map and find directions to various locations and better visualize their surroundings from multiple aerial vantage points.

"We believe Windows Live Local sets a new standard for what people can do with maps, directions and local search," said Christopher Payne, MSN Search Corporate Vice President.

"The combination of immersive aerial imagery, customizable map annotations, innovative driving directions and the ability to share local search information with others gives users an incredibly powerful and easy way to find what they want and get where they want to go."

The most visible of these features is a new 45-degree bird's-eye view of major
U.S. cities such as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle and
Las Vegas. Covering about 25 percent of the U.S. by population, these bird's-
eye images are captured by Pictometry International Corp. via low-flying
airplanes and then integrated with road and satellite maps to simulate 360-
degree panoramas that can be viewed from four compass directions. On-screen
navigational tools and preview tiles enable navigation between directional
views or zooming in closer to a destination. Now people will be able to
experience what it's like to be there, whether they are evaluating a new house
to buy, choosing the exact location to meet someone, or just taking a virtual
vacation.

The new service, is located at http://local.live.com . Over the next couple of years, Microsoft plans to continuously
update bird's-eye, aerial, and road map data and imagery as well as local
listings and information.