Microsoft Corp. is searching for a larger role in the area of Web searches, planning to upgrade its MSN site and sparking speculation that it might assume the lucrative paid-search functions now handled by its partner Overture Services Inc. The money-losing MSN unit, which runs the MSN.com Internet portal, provides Web browsing software and offers Internet access. The unit will increase its research and development spending to improve Web searching, said Bob Visse, MSN's marketing director. But some believe Microsoft ultimately will develop its own service and charge companies for placing them high atop the results of searches. Microsoft currently contracts with Overture to provide these so-called "paid search listings."
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