Joining the battle to redefine Internet search, Yahoo is taking aim with a new browser enhancement it calls “Axis”.
It alters browsers made by other companies to display search results in a more convenient and visual format.
The Internet company Yahoo Inc. released Axis in Apple’s app store late Wednesday. That version will work only on Apple’s iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. The software also can be installed as a plug-in on most major browsers used on desktop computers and laptops. Apps for other mobile devices are in the works.
A device running Axis can display search results in a panorama of visual thumbnails that can be scrolled through above a Web page. It’s a departure from search engines’ traditional presentation of a list of staid Web links that require more navigation and guesswork.
All the major search engines are adopting new formats intended to make it easier for users to find information without clicking through to page after page.
