Microsoft has just released a beta version of Cortana in Google Play for Android devices. This means that for the first time, the Windows 10 personal assistant will now be accessible to Android users.
The multinational tech company stated on a blog post that Cortana on Android will much like be the same with the Windows version in terms of functionality.
"With the app, you can manage your hectic lifestyle by setting and getting reminders, searching the web on-the-go, tracking important information such as flight details as well as starting and completing tasks across all of your devices," Microsoft writes.
The Android Cortana also remains its "Notebook" feature just like the one on Windows. The feature will give the user the ability to edit Cortana's default recommendations for news alerts, weather update, sports and other things depending on the interests and concerns of the user.
However, the new Android version of Cortana also has its own limitations and drawbacks. Unlike with the PC version, the Android Cortana cannot use the "Hey Cortana" command to demand for answers. The user cannot also make the virtual assistant correct the phone's settings and launch other apps. Microsoft said that the said limitations is likely not permanent as the company is still working with the Android app.
It should also be noted that the Android version of Cortana is still in beta which means that bugs and other issues concerning the app are unavoidable. The company is set to fix the said errors before the new app will be officially released.
A spokesperson from Microsoft stated that the new app is not applicable and supported on tablets. If the user will try to install it on a tablet, Google play will insist that the installation is only approved for Android phones.
As of the moment, the beta version of Cortana will be available if the user will sign in with Microsoft's beta program. The app is still only available in the US, but the company is planning to make it available in other countries too.
