State of the MSN Engine

I was searching in other threads, and can't seem to find any solid answer from the last few days, so please excuse me for starting a new thread on this very important topic that will affect all of us. I hope we can stay on topic, and get some solid answers.

1) Please describe what you know about who has seen the new engine to date.
- A. There has been some "ramping up". Was this nearly 100% rollout for a few hours, and then back to Yahoo? I have personally seen some big spikes, and then nothing. Have you had simialr experiences?
- B. Exactly who is seeing the new search all the time? I know the desktop bar uses it, and the tolbar uses it, and the Beta of Messenger 7 uses it, and there was even a link to "try the new MSN homepage" yesterday. Somehow I don't believe even close to 100% of people are seeing it, but I have no verifiable evidence.
- C. Any estimates on what percent of the general public are seeing it now?
2) Please describe what you know about when they will declare the end of Beta and the launch of their new engine/homepage. I have heard reports from separate unrelated sources they were planning to begin a "media blitz" on February 1st. Would anyone care to elaborate?

Any help appreciated. I, probably like many others, have much to gain by knowing more about the above.

I have just seen "spikes" as well, like 15-30 minute periods, randomly. I get beta ALL the time, but i dunno if its an ip tracking or a cookie? I tried delelting the cookies but still get beta results

I think it is BETA all the time, but I am getting spikes as well.

I have it in Tampa, FL U.S. 24/7 now.


I've noted spikes anyway but consider these surfing trends more that anything.

The end of beta and the new search will happen when you see the new commercials touting the new player....The ideal launch would actually be during the super bowl. Everyone loves the super bowl commercials, usually more than the game, and it is a world wide affair. I expect, if there is to be a media blitz, this is where it will start.

Put together some memorable ones and poof....what an impact that could have.

Cheers

I tend to believe, or hope, the beta is not on full force. Over the past week I have seen MSN home reverting back to Y! results many times, not to mention the spans I have not noticed.
The spikes, a couple hours at a time, are much more in-line with the expected click-throughs for the keywords we have in top spots.

Also, the Feb 1 date appears to have come from a reliable source, one who has had prior successful predictions.
Would also make sense to start the media campaign then make a big hit at the super-bowl.

Wishful thinking? 4 days to find out.