MSN Local Search

Is this new?

[bostonBeans]

I don't use MSN very much, so I am unsure if this is new, but they have a 'local' link now above the search box on the SERPs. They have the 'BETA' disclaimer to go along with it.

Not really impressed so far - but I have only done 10 queries. They could not find a plumber in my town (while it is a small town, the other local search options and IYPs can find 3 or 4).

The local and web results on the same page, but not integrated, is a pretty weak hedge IMHO.

[bostonBeans]

Looks like MoneyMan is way ahead of me on this one...see here: [webmasterworld.com ]