Monday, 13 October 2008

Microsoft Lure Users with SearchPerks Reward Program

Microsoft, competing against Google search for search market share, previously offered Live Search users cash back for products they purchased online. But guess that wasn’t enough as Microsoft has now launched a reward promotion called SearchPerks.

SearchPerks, which runs through April 15, is similar to airlines’ frequent flyer programs. Every time you use Live Search you earn points that can be redeemed for prizes like ringtones, Xbox games, and t-shirts.

The campaign is currently only available in the U.S and users’ searches would be monitored by a program downloadable in the form of a toolbar for Internet Explorer. The program supports any version of IE higher than 6.

The campaign ends in April next year and those who register before the end of December this year will receive a bonus of 500 extra points. The points accumulated during the promotion can only be exchanged for prizes in April, at the end of the promotion.

However, the Microsoft SearchPerks Web site claims, "During the promotion there may be opportunities to receive additional tickets as determined by Microsoft. Any additional tickets earned will also be provided after completion of the promotion."