Microsoft launched it’s own maps feature at http://virtualearth.msn.com/.

I haven’t had a chance to compare it to Google Maps in any depth, but I can tell you that I like Google better on first blush.  As is the norm with Google the interface is easier to understand, and the mere fact that you can use it for directions (I couldn’t find a way to do that with Virtual Earth) makes it more valuable to me.

On the other hand Virtual Earth has a couple of utilities I really like.  One is that it has an ActiveX feature that can automatically tell where you are based on your Wi-Fi access point, or IP address if your not set up on Wi-Fi.  That makes their local search very powerful.

Another nice little feature on Virtual Earth is the ScratchPad which lets you see your most recent searches in a small window.

That said, I think Google Maps is a superior service.