Less than a year in beta, Windows Live Search is now live, with an improved interface and more accurate search results.

Windows Live Search, showing off a spartan but elegant design at Live.com that out-simples Google's, will now power MSN Search, reports CNET. Along with Live.com, Live Local Search is also now out of beta (but only in the U.S. and U.K.). Both are part of Microsoft's internet-based set of Live services and software. Derrick Connell, search business general manager. Connell called the Live Search launch "a watershed moment" for Microsoft.

Live Search allows users to search for news, images, video, blogs and RSS feeds via a single portal. Microsoft claims the new search will return more precise results - and do it faster. The Live.com site has only one "outside" link - to the new Live QnA service.

Features include a scoping bar on the top of the results page keeps information from a previous search so a subsequent search can be executed in the context of the first. The new "related searches" feature on the right side uses an algorithm that uses the queries and results of others who have performed the same search.

"The launch of Live Search is a significant milestone for our services business, with our core search and monetization platform ready for prime time for MSN and Windows Live as well as for partners through syndication deals," said Christopher Payne, corporate vice president of Live Search at Microsoft, in a statement.

Live Local Search will offer increased availability of bird's-eye imagery, improved mobile integration and functionality, and other user interface improvements and customization tools, Microsoft said.

Additional info on the Live Search blog and Live Local Search blog.