Microsoft rumoured to be taking cues from Google Assistant for Cortana redesign

Microsoft’s Cortana might be getting a new look in the future and the company is supposedly looking at its rivals to get this done. Microsoft is supposedly aiming to make the voice assistant’s user interface to look more conversational (think Google Assistant) and instead of just relying on your voice, it’ll let you type out your queries. One other thing that is rumoured to be coming is Microsoft is thinking of movie Cortana to the system tray on the right to make it more difficult for you to hide it (or at least to encourage you to use it). If Microsoft does push through with these plans, will you try it out?

Source: Windows Central + Thurrott

Microsoft revamps Cortana for iOS

Following the revamp of Cortana on Android in December 2016, Microsoft is trying to connect with iOS users with the app’s update. The refreshed app is said to load faster and defaults into listening for your voice commands or questions. At the same time, there is a new Quick Actions feature that lets you tap a couple of buttons and have Cortana do things like create an alarm, tell a joke, or set a reminder. You don’t have to talk to Cortana now to do the simple things and, at the same time, it teaches users some of the things the app can do.

When you ask it questions now, it’ll provide you with a full page of answers. There is also a Google Now-like cards that display information such as news, weather, traffic, etc. Even the call and texting functions have been refreshed. When you want to call or text through Cortana, it’ll redirect you to iPhone’s dialer and the built-in messaging app.

Source: Apple Insider + PC World

Microsoft takes out Cortana voice feature on Android

Android fans aren’t happy with what Microsoft did with its virtual assistant on their devices. The tech giant pulled out the “Hey Cortana” voice functionality because of a bug. According to the company, those who used the voice assistant couldn’t access Android’s own voice search feature. It might be weird to have both “Ok Google” and “Hey Cortana” on but there are certain features you can reach with Google’s own voice assistant that Microsoft’s version can’t reach.

Users have taken to the app’s Google Play reviews page to express their dissatisfaction over the move. There isn’t any definite word from Microsoft if they will be bringing back the feature but if they do listen to their users it hopefully will be making an appearance by next year. We really won’t expect them to do so with the remaining days as engineers are most likely on vacation, too.

Source: PCWorld

Cyanogen to 'deeply integrate' Microsoft's Cortana into OS

Looks like Cyanogen is trying to legitimize itself further from Android with its new plans. According to Cyanogen CEO Kirt McMaster, they are working with Microsoft to "deeply integrate" Cortana into the next version of Cyanogen OS. "Cortana is currently available as an app on Android, but in order for it to make a real difference, it needs to be able to be integrated at the OS level so that its full potential can be leveraged," McMaster said. 

Cyanogen is one of the more popular third-party ROM for Android phones and tablets. If this partnership works, it'll be a win for both sides. Microsoft will gain legitimacy for Cortana as a platform-independent tool and Cyanogen gets a new feature from a non-Google source. We have a bit of wait though as Cortana is still in beta for Android. 

Source: International Business Games | Via: Android Police