We expected that a search engine will launch a new service this week, seeing that this seems to be the usual practice lately. Thus, it was no surprise when MSN announced the launch of its local search service, called MSN Local Search.

Considering the fact that the competitors from Google, Yahoo!, AskJeeves and AOL have already launched local search services, Microsoft had no intention of being left behind. Hence, MSN Local Search offers a list of sites from the respective area, as well as a map pinpointing their location.

This service resembles a similar one offered by Google which, besides the possibility of viewing a map, also offers aerial or satellite images. MSN Local Search will use Microsoft's MapPoint Web Service for the maps, and, where possible, the TerraServer-USA for various aerial images.

But Microsoft's local search will be completed and improved with the launch of MSN Virtual Earth, a new service that will let users superimpose driving routes, places, and weather information on maps and satellite images. According to Microsoft, this service should also be available later on this year, probably in September.

So, it seems that the main search engine rivals are already providing very similar services. We can't help but wonder, what will determine the users to go for either Google, Yahoo! or MSN? Will it be a choice based on loyalty, the quality of services or simply what comes in handy at the moment?