Ask (formerly Ask Jeeves) today secretly launched ‘Ask X‘ a new prototype search interface for the ailing ‘find’ engine. Described on the site as a “double-secret sandbox for testing Ask experiences of the future”, it’s basically a play area for new services in development that are not not quite ready for public scrutiny. Some of the new features include:
- Left: A search control panel that stays with you, complete with Zoom Related Search and Search Suggestions that update as you type.
- Middle: Results front and center to provide clutter-free information without having to scroll down the page, and Binoculars to preview results.
- Right: A preview of other types of search results, including video, news, images, blogs, shopping, encyclopedia and more.