WebProNews

According to Wired, it may not be too much longer before your next image search turns up more accurate results.

"A group of European researchers is developing technology that could vastly improve image searching by identifying the components of an image. The group, which includes the Xerox Research Centre Europe and universities in France, England, Sweden, Austria and Switzerland, has developed software that can recognize everyday objects in digital images, according to Christopher Dance, a senior research scientist at Xerox."

The technology to determine the actual content of an image, instead of relying on metadata, is something that could have far reaching benefits.

"This type of image-based comparison shopping could generate substantial revenues for search engines, according to SearchDay's Sherman. For example, consumers who find an expensive red knit sweater online could ask the search engine to find similar-looking garments with smaller price tags. "It wouldn't surprise me if advertising is an early application (of the technology)," Sherman said."

The days are almost here, when your search for "Bush" can be screened for "the person", "a shrub" or, if your preference, something a little more after dark. ;-)

Andy Beal is an internet marketing consultant and considered one of the world's most respected and interactive search engine marketing experts. Andy has worked with many Fortune 1000 companies such as Motorola, CitiFinancial, Lowes, Alaska Air, DeWALT, NBC and Experian.

You can read his internet marketing blog at Marketing Pilgrim and reach him at andy.beal@gmail.com.