Microsoft CEO says catching Google is goal

By Daisuke Wakabayashi

LAS VEGAS (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) Chief Executive Steve Ballmer pledged on Thursday the company would gain share against Google Inc (GOOG.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) in online advertising and Web searching, even if it's his "last breath" at the company.

Speaking at Microsoft's MIX08 online technology conference in Las Vegas, Ballmer reiterated the justifications for its$41.2 billion unsolicited offer for Yahoo Inc (YHOO.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), saying the deal would accelerate its efforts to build a competitor to Google.

"So it may be my last breath at Microsoft, but we're going to be there, working away, building share," said Ballmer during a bantering question-and-answer session with Guy Kawasaki, a venture capitalist and one of the first employees at Apple Inc (AAPL.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz).

"In online, yeah, it's Google, Google, Google, and we're in the game. We're just the little engine that could," joked Ballmer, whose company is the world's largest software maker.

In the wide-ranging chat with Kawasaki, Ballmer addressed criticism about Windows Vista, launched a few subtle jabs at Apple, and even re-enacted an infamous dance that earned him Web video fame and earned him the unflattering nickname of "Monkey Boy" in some Internet circles.

He didn't, however, have much to say about the company's offer for Yahoo. Microsoft has proposed buying Yahoo for $31 a share in cash and stock. Yahoo's board has rejected the bid, saying it undervalued the company.

"We've made an offer, and it's out there, baby," said Ballmer. The deal was originally worth $44.6 billion, but Microsoft's stock slide has pushed down its value.

The Microsoft CEO said if a deal should go through, the two companies will look to reduce overlapping areas.