Microsoft has bid farewell to its digital assistant, Cortana, as part of its strategic shift towards AI-driven solutions on the Windows 11 platform. This move aligns with the company’s goal of providing users with more accessible and efficient tools.
Cortana, which was first introduced as a digital assistant on Windows Phone and later transitioned to Windows 10, has faced challenges in competing with rivals like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant.
The decision to discontinue Cortana comes after a three-year process of phasing out the digital assistant from iOS, Android, and now Windows 11. In a new update, the Cortana app on Windows 11 will be disabled, and users will be directed to a support article explaining the changes when attempting to launch the app.
While Cortana will no longer be supported in Teams mobile, Microsoft Teams Display, and Microsoft Teams Rooms starting in the fall of 2023, it will continue to exist within Outlook mobile, allowing users to access its functionalities in a specific context.
Microsoft’s focus on AI solutions is evident with the introduction of Windows Copilot, a new sidebar feature in an upcoming Windows 11 update. Powered by Bing Chat, Windows Copilot will enable users to manage Windows settings, seek information, and perform tasks seamlessly.
Voice access is another notable feature that allows users to utilize voice commands for tasks such as text composition, app navigation, web browsing, and email management. Microsoft’s AI-powered Bing provides precise answers from multiple reliable sources in response to user queries.
The shift towards AI emphasizes Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing productivity and efficiency for its users. By embracing innovative solutions like Windows Copilot and voice access, the company aims to deliver a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.
As Microsoft bids farewell to Cortana, the company is paving the way for newer and smarter AI-driven features on Windows 11. With the integration of Bing Chat and the focus on voice commands, users can look forward to a more connected and efficient computing experience.
Overall, Microsoft’s decision to retire Cortana in favor of AI-driven solutions on Windows 11 reflects the changing landscape of digital assistants and the company’s commitment to delivering advanced productivity tools to its users.
