There are reports of a new Microsoft web analytics tool being in the works. It would compete directly with Google Analytics. There is no confirmation of these reports, as Microsoft has not made an official announcement regarding the project. The reports indicate that a beta version of this tool, code-named “Gatineau,” is scheduled for this summer, and will enable users to filter web traffic by age and gender demographics. This specific data will be coming from users’ Windows Live profiles, and will remain unconnected with users’ personal information such as name or email address. Nevertheless, some privacy issues could come into play, regarding the manner in which demographic data is acquired and utilized for statistical purposes.
Ask.com is looking to avoid discussions around privacy issues, and has recently announced that it will soon offer complete privacy control settings for people that use its search engine. Google has also released its analytics tools for Facebook developers.
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