A Sneaky New Behavior from Microsoft’s Bing: Hiding the Fact that You’re Using Bing

In a move that’s sure to raise some eyebrows, Microsoft has implemented a new behavior in Bing that attempts to hide the fact that users are actually using Bing when they search for Google. Yes, you read that right – Bing is trying to deceive users into thinking they’re using Google!

The Sneaky Behavior

Bing is a decent search engine, but let’s face it – for many people, it’s just a means to an end. They use Bing to get to Google. Microsoft’s new behavior takes this fact and runs with it, making it seem like users are actually using Google.

Here’s how it works: when you search for “Google” on Bing, the search results page will quickly scroll down just enough to hide the “Microsoft Bing” logo. Then, it adds a new search bar that looks eerily similar to Google’s. There’s even a small message under the search bar, mimicking Google’s design. If you search through this secondary search bar, you’ll be directed to a typical Bing search results page. The goal is to get users to perform an extra search or two on Bing without realizing they’re actually using the Microsoft search engine.

But Wait, There’s More!

Unless you’re paying close attention, it’s not hard to be fooled into thinking you’re using Google instead of Bing. And that’s exactly what Microsoft is counting on. The quick change in design is just enough to make users think they’re using Google, which seems to be the intention.

A Sneaky Move in the Search Engine Battle

This move is just the latest in a long line of tactics used by both Microsoft and Google in the search engine battle. It’s clear that the target audience for this behavior is anyone who has Bing set as their default browser, such as those getting a new Windows machine.

A New Low for Microsoft?

Google’s Parisa Tabriz, from the Chrome team, has already called out this behavior as a “new low” from Microsoft. It’s clear that the search engine giants are at war, and each side is willing to do whatever it takes to gain an edge.

The Verdict

It’s hard to say whether this behavior will ultimately pay off for Microsoft, but one thing is certain – it’s a bold move in a battle that shows no signs of slowing down. Only time will tell if Bing’s sneaky tactics will gain them an edge in the search engine wars.

What’s Your Take?

Do you think Microsoft’s new behavior is a clever move, or is it a low blow? Let us know in the comments!

Update 1/15:

Just over a week after the behavior was called out, Microsoft has removed the misleading trick from Bing. Searching for “Google” now brings up typical Bing search results, rather than mimicking Google’s design and hiding Bing branding.

Stay tuned for more updates on the search engine battle and other tech news!