Microsoft’s digital assistant Cortana is evolving, and with the upcoming Creators Update for Windows 10, the software giant is bringing it on IoT devices with screens, thus providing them with even more capabilities.
Windows 10 IoT is a version of the operating system that’s specifically aimed at embedded devices, and it can also work with development boards such as the Raspberry Pi. The IoT core is mostly installed on smart devices, such as fridges, and as long as these devices have a display, they’ll get Cortana as well.
Microsoft has announced at WinHEC this month that the goal is to bring the digital assistant in English for the US and the UK markets at first, but Cortana will eventually become available in more languages and in other countries as well, just like it’s happening with the PC and phone version.
Several devices with Windows 10 and Cortana have already been demoed at technology events earlier this year, and Microsoft clearly wants to increase their numbers, trying to provide a similar Windows 10 experience on all devices.
Cortana for PC improvements
Last week, Microsoft rolled out Windows 10 build 14986 for PCs enrolled in the Fast ring to introduce even more Cortana improvements, such as options to turn off the computer, change volume, and play music with voice commands.
Furthermore, Microsoft is also trying to improve Cortana in other regions, including China, where the company sees growing adoption of the digital assistant.
“Cortana can now recognize music for customers in China. Simply tap the music notes icon in the top corner of Cortana’s home page, and Cortana will listen to whatever music is playing and use Netease to tell you what song it is. This works exactly like the feature does in English (United States),” Microsoft explains.
The IoT version of Cortana won’t be available from the very beginning in the Creators Update, but Microsoft’s goal is to release it sometime next year.
