MSN launched virtual earth this week. It’s an obvious attempt to keep up with Google in the map category. I was hoping for a great product and my expectations where high after a preview on Channel 9. Mostly for selfish reasons because our website runs on a Microsoft platform. Although it has some nice features such as a way of locating yourself on the map and a closer zoom then Google maps currently offers, I was disappointed. The product is very buggy (sure it’s beta, but what does that mean these days?) and the dated maps are a clear indication that shipping to keep up with Google was more important then delivering a quality product. Good luck trying to shake a reputation of showing outdated maps. It’s unfortunate because it has potential and now there is a risk disappointed users will make up their mind today and stick with Google.