In the Google vs. Microsoft battle, the metric most often compared is search share. In that category, it's evident that Microsoft isn't even holding its own; it is losing steadily. But what about in online-advertising tools? Can Microsoft parlay its software-development experience into superior tools for those willing to give its adCenter platform a whirl? The Softies are attempting to send that message with some of Microsoft's latest Live-centric announcements and unveilings. On January 16, Microsoft provided an update on some of the tools being developed by its AdCenter Lab team. (AdCenter Lab is the year-old joint venture between MSN's adCenter team and Microsoft Research that is charged with "a mission to research and incubate advanced technologies for MSN's adCenter.") A year ago, adCenter Lab researchers showed off 15 prototypes of the "approximately 40" ad technologies on which they were working.