2008 “Online” Olympics Have Arrived!

Tonight marks the Opening Ceremony for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and while the Olympics has been a part of our history for hundreds of years, the online coverage of this year’s Olympics will break historical records. Microsoft will be partnering with NBC (the official US network of the Olympics) on NBCOlympics.com and Microsoft’s Live will join in on an extensive search functionality for this year’s games.

If you’re trying to search for a specific athlete or a specific game and it’s outcome, Microsoft’s Live Search will have an enhanced search bringing you live, up to the minute coverage during the next few weeks. Microsoft’s Live Search’s blog shows you how to search for your country’s medal winnings, as well as an “athlete answer” which will give you an entire biography on any athlete you may see on your TV during the Olympic games.

Many computer users have used the internet before during the Olympics, particularly when the location is several hours ahead of the US’s timezones. However, according to reports, the amount of online media, coverage and other fact-searching will be unprecedented this year.

Enjoy tonight’s Opening Ceremony and make sure you check out NBCOlympics.com for complete Olympic coverage.