Verizon makes a big mistake, picks Microsoft

Google, Yahoo and Microsoft were competing for a mobile search deal that would give the winner some good exposure through the Verizon network. Unfortunately for Verizon, they didn't choose Google -- something that would have given users a level of comfort, and a better user experience out of the box.

"The ultimate goal in mobility is contextual awareness and the delivery of highly personalized experiences," Jackson said. "These are competencies Google has in spades, so it may be that Verizon's customers ultimately end up with an inferior experience relative to what Google might enable." -- John Jackson

On the other hand, this deal is one that Microsoft should be happy about -- it's going to give them much needed exposure on mobile devices. Mobile search hasn't yet completely swung in anyone's favor, and so this is where Microsoft should focus their attention -- not web search.

Now if Microsoft would only launch a new version of Windows Mobile that can compete with iPhone and Android.