Microsoft (MS) has officially commenced the process of discontinuing its voice assistant service, Cortana. The decision comes as Microsoft aims to integrate ChatGPT and artificial intelligence into its latest operating system, Windows 11, marking the end of an era for the Cortana platform.
Cortana, which has not received any significant functional updates over the past two years, faced its impending fate when Microsoft announced in June that support for the voice assistant would be officially terminated by August.
ICYMI: Microsoft lets Insiders get rid of Cortana on Windows 11 https://t.co/qviQt6fxEx
— Windows Central (@WindowsCentral) August 6, 2023
At the time of the announcement, Microsoft hinted at the introduction of new artificial intelligence productivity features within Windows and its web browser, Microsoft Edge. This strategic move has led to the discontinuation of overlapping and less effective services, as the company seeks to streamline its offerings and enhance user experience.
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According to recent reports from Windows, a well-known source for Windows-related updates, Cortana has already been officially deactivated in the Canary preview build of Windows 11. Users who access the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 are greeted with a message stating, “The Windows Cortana app is no longer available,” as Cortana becomes inactive with the Windows 11 update. The message includes a link to Microsoft’s support document for more detailed information.
Microsoft’s support document highlights the company’s recommendation to integrate other AI-based productivity features, such as Bing Search and Windows Copilot, into Windows, thus compensating for the absence of Cortana. As a result of this transition, Cortana’s functionalities will not disappear entirely, but rather transform into an integrated web-based feature within Microsoft Edge, allowing users to utilize AI-driven capabilities seamlessly while browsing the web.
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Furthermore, Windows 11 itself will incorporate AI-related features that can be accessed openly across various applications, promising a cohesive and enhanced user experience. It is important to note that Cortana installations on existing Windows 10 systems will continue to function, receiving updates until October 2025. However, Microsoft plans to discontinue the download service for new Cortana installations on Windows 10 within the next few weeks.
This strategic shift by Microsoft not only signifies the end of Cortana as a standalone voice assistant but also heralds a new era of AI integration within the Windows ecosystem. As the tech giant continues to embrace AI-driven advancements, users can expect to see enhanced productivity and seamless integration across their digital interactions.
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