Microsoft Adds WorldPages.com to Internet Explorer 5.0

San Francisco-based directory firm WorldPages/WebYP Inc. entered a strategic alliance with Microsoft to integrate the WorldPages Directory into Microsoft Internet Explorer’s search capabilities.

The directory will enable users of Internet Explorer versions 5.0 as well as older versions 3.0 and 4.0 to access WorldPages’ search engine for businesses, people and government listings. Financial arrangements were not disclosed.

WorldPages provides access to 117 million U.S. and Canadian white and yellow pages listings (including mapping,) toll-free numbers, 9 million email addresses, 30 million URLs and links to over 350 directories worldwide.

WorldPages offers Internet Explorer users access to information and Web sites of more than 150,000 small businesses across North America.

Advanced Communications Group Inc. said last week that its board of directors has approved a letter of intent to acquire the outstanding stock of Web YP Inc. (doing business as WorldPages.com).

WorldPages has more than 85 North American sales affiliates and 150,000 advertisers.