Web surfers preferring to find real people talking about a particular subject -- as opposed to info provided by companies, online stores or news sites -- might find value in a new search engine called Twing.

Twing is a specialized search engine created as a quick and easy way to search and discover opinions, conversations and communities that match your interests. It also features its own blogs and forums.

"Online forums are an established medium people have been using to communicate since the early days of the Internet, even predating the Web," says Kevin Shea, general manager for Twing, in a company release. "Our goal is to help Internet users participate in discussions, ask questions, get answers and offer advice by providing a resource that organizes this category of online content and uncovers the discussions that interest them."

Currently in beta, Twing says these online forums have been growing year after year, with recent estimates of U.S. users alone exceeding 50 million. The search engine uses proprietary software and algorithms to find relevant online communities and forums. Users can register for free to participate in forums and personalization options.