No longer are toolbars used just to run ads or as a marketing tool. But now, most major internet portals are offering multi tasking toolbars. And with MS IE 7.0 next year, even more competitions are expected in the war of choosing.

The internet Toolbar could be still new to some users. However, with features like web search, translation, pop-up blocker, and other services, it is becoming more popular with a novice user and not just to computer savvy high end users.

Melting pot of toolbars

Yahoo! Korea released its latest toolbar (Ver.6.3) last month. It added a free anti-spyware feature to remove malicious software and up to 20 tabs to navigate and open web pages in a single window to offer added conveniences.

Daum Communications, one of Korea's major web portal sites too has introduced its new toolbar, Ver.2.0 on the 9th. Its new toolbar dictionary can give out full definition and pronunciation just by placing mouse over the word. It also offers PC protection from spyware and other threats with AhnLab security.

Korea’s other major web portal Empas, who already offered free anti-spyware treatment from hauri anti-virus software in its toolbar six months ago unveiled an application (Ver.2.0), which it claims to repel mosquitoes away using ultrasonic frequency from user’s computer. It also upgraded its features by adding screen capture and ability to add search word in its search engine window on real-time base.

Korea's foremost websites Naver and Nate are also focusing on upgrading their toolbar features to offer more convenience to users.

Naver plans to release its upgraded toolbar in November which will offer free anti-virus service.

With all of these ongoing toolbar wars, more hookups like Naver-Nexon are expected. Empas too is said to be looking to partner-up with other firms to link their toolbar service.

MS IE7: address window vs. search window, who will be on top?
To make the situation even more complicate, with MS IE 7.0 available next year will add even more to the war.

In previous IE version 6.0, after installation, web window was replaced by its toolbar window but the new IE 7.0 is designed not to do that.

And because of that upon installing new IE 7.0, we could see internet address window and search engine window and also its default toolbar window too. Which window will be on top of the menu bar is unknown and intrigue too many.

Experts are concerned that It could also bring confusion to the users.

“We should see active competitions with toolbars until next year. Whoever comes out with more of what users want should prevail. Many portals are uncertain about how and what specifically they will be providing though.'' Empas CEO Moon-sung Yang said.

On the other hand, some users are concerned with slower browser speed associated with using all these toolbars. Instead of coming up with other features, industry should also concentrate on improving their search engine performances.