AOL Enhancing Search for Broadband

AOL said Friday it was beginning to beta test a new version of its search product on a limited basis, making enhancements that will benefit those users who have broadband access. The new AOL Search will "go beyond text links," the company said. It will include a redesign aimed at making information accessible on a single page, and will provide links to videos, pictures, sound clips, and localized information.

New modular functionality will respond intuitively to search queries, says AOL. For example, a search for a particular music artist will provide relevant audio and video content, or a search for a current event will provide a list of related stores on the right-hand side. Finally, users will be able to fine tune their results in real time, allowing for more relevant searches. The company said it will launch an open beta in "the coming weeks."