Olds also noted that Google is really pushing itself to evolve.

"What this really shows us is that Google is still looking to push the boundaries of search," he said. "These new features, although not really revolutionary, give some level of added value to users and that's always a good thing for Google. These additions give Google some features that Microsoft can't match right now, which is always to Google's advantage."

Right now, Microsoft needs to come out with similar features if it doesn't want to lag behind, noted Olds. "It's an arms race between the two companies and Google just upped the ante a bit higher."

Sharon Gaudin covers the Internet and Web 2.0, emerging technologies, and desktop and laptop chips for Computerworld. Follow Sharon on Twitter at or subscribe to . Her e-mail address is .

in Computerworld's Internet Search Topic Center.