In 2014, Microsoft introduced Cortana as its virtual assistant, allowing users to perform tasks through voice commands, much like Apple’s Siri.
However, it appears that Microsoft is now moving away from its old virtual assistant, as the latest Windows 11 update signals the end of the Cortana app. The reason behind this shift is Microsoft’s decision to invest in AI technology instead.
According to Windows Latest, the Cortana app received an update on the Microsoft Store after two years of stagnation, but rather than introducing new features, the update effectively marks the end of Cortana as a standalone app. A message now appears stating that “Cortana in Windows as a standalone app is deprecated.”
A Microsoft support article clarifies that Cortana will still be accessible within apps like Outlook and Microsoft Teams, but even this availability might not last long. The tech giant will focus on Bing Search and Windows Copilot, leveraging generative AI for enhanced capabilities.
Microsoft stated, “Starting in August 2023, we will no longer support Cortana in Windows as a standalone app. However, you can still access powerful productivity features in Windows and Edge, which have increased AI capabilities. We are excited to keep innovating and using AI to help you work smarter and faster.”
Windows Latest reports that Cortana will likely be phased out on previous Windows versions in the coming weeks. The decision to move on from Cortana aligns with Microsoft’s collaboration with OpenAI to enhance ChatGPT, making it understandable why the company has chosen to embrace new AI technology over its decade-old assistant.
Concurrently, during a recent call with investors, Apple CEO Tim Cook reaffirmed the company’s extensive research in AI technologies, including “generative AI.” Speculation suggests that Apple is internally developing a technology to compete with ChatGPT. However, unlike Microsoft and Google, Apple’s new tools have not been made available to the public yet.
Criticism has arisen within Apple about the development of Siri, with complaints about organizational dysfunction and a lack of ambition. Some employees contend that Siri is still based on legacy technology and significant effort is needed to improve it.
Given the advancements seen in generative AI by other companies, some argue that it might be time for Apple to move on from Siri and concentrate on new AI technologies. What are your thoughts on Apple, Siri, and AI? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
