Microsoft’s Cortana to hit other platforms as more advanced standalone app
Alexandra BurlacuMicrosoft's Cortana may be broadening its horizons this year, as the company is reportedly working on releasing the software for other platforms as well.
For now, Cortana works only on Windows Phone and the latest Windows 10, which is yet to become available to the general public. According to a new report, however, Android and iOS devices may be getting a taste of Cortana as well, as Microsoft is reportedly making efforts in this regards.
The news comes from an exclusive new Reuters report, which cites Microsoft Research managing director Eric Horvitz, as well as some unnamed sources. The report notes that Cortana may launch as a standalone app for other platforms other than Windows Phone and Windows 10. The new version of Cortana will reportedly be more advanced, as it will use research from an artificial intelligence project called "Einstein."
"This kind of technology, which can read and understand email, will play a central role in the next roll out of Cortana, which we are working on now for the fall time frame," explained Horvitz, who is also involved in the Einstein project.
"Microsoft believes its work on speech recognition, search and machine learning will let it transform its digital assistant into the first intelligent 'agent' which anticipates users needs," Reuters further notes.
It remains unclear when this advanced version of Cortana will become available as a standalone app, but it could happen later this year. Microsoft could make an announcement in the fall, when the latest Windows 10 is set to hit commercial availability. Windows 10 will come with Cortana built-in, marking the first time such a digital assistant becomes available on the desktop.
Digital assistants are apparently gaining ground steadily, and several useful options are already available. Apple has the famous Siri, Android has Google Now, Microsoft has Cortana, and BlackBerry recently introduced its own assistant called simply the BlackBerry Assistant.
Cortana has stirred plenty of interest since its debut on Windows Phone and wider availability on other platforms as a standalone app would surely make it even more successful.
No other details are available at this point regarding Microsoft's plans to release Cortana as a standalone app, but we'll keep you up to date as soon as we learn more..
most read
more stories from Mobile
Discover how Apple's Safari AI upgrade is revolutionizing browsing. Click to stay ahead with the latest tech insights!
ernest hamiltonStay updated on Apple's efforts to fix iPhone alarm silence bug. Read more for the latest on this critical issue!
ernest hamiltoniOS 17.5 introduces the 'Repair State' feature, ensuring 'Find My' remains active during iPhone servicing. Stay updated on this essential update.
ernest hamiltonAmid the EU's ruling on iPadOS, Epic Games sheds light on Fortnite's release for iPad and iPhone.
ernest hamiltonGet ready for the unveiling of MediaTek's Dimensity 9300+ chipset, promising enhanced AI capabilities and a faster X4-Prime core on May 7th!
ernest hamiltonDiscover the essential details about the Rabbit R1 AI companion before making your purchase decision.
ernest hamiltonStay ahead of the curve with iOS 18's groundbreaking AI security features. Explore how Apple is revolutionizing iPhone security.
ernest hamiltonGoogle Play Store now allows simultaneous downloads for multiple Android apps, streamlining the installation process. Read more for improved app management!
ernest hamilton