Microsoft's intelligent personal assistant Cortana has finally made its way to the Android ecosystem. Users however should not expect a fully-capable Cortana for Android compared to its Windows counterpart.
Previously available only as an exclusive feature for Windows 10 and Windows mobile users, Microsoft has recently made the app available for Android.
Prior to its Android release though, Microsoft has been conducting beta tests on Cortana for Android and gathering feedback. The Verge reports that with the official release, the Redmond-based tech giant aims to increase its focus on cross-platform services and apps with Windows 10, Microsoft's latest operating system.
As such, the Android Cortana has some of the basic features that can be found in its Windows counterpart. Including voice commands, voice search, as well as to track flights, weather, packages, and reminders.
Alos included is Notebook, a feature CNET describes as one that helps keep track of a user's preferences such as foods, sports team, and trip routes, making Cortana more useful as it learns more about the user to offer information best suited to the user.
There are however a few limitations due to the developer restrictions in place for Android. Oneof these limitations for Android is that Cortana cannot open apps or change device settings, a feature available on its Windows counterpart. However, Microsoft is considering ways to make stronger connections between apps.
In an interview with Mashable, Microsoft's Group Program Manager of Cortana Marcus Ash relates that it is a bit of learning process for them as to what they can do based on the restrictions in the platform. However, he believes in Cortana's powerful potential in Android as they continue to spend more time improving it further.
Cortana is now available for download at the Google Play Store though for now, its availability is only for Android users in the United States. A wider global release of the app is expected in the future.
Join the Conversation