Cortana in the vehicle prototype with windshield projection is in the works

Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) has expanded the scope of applications for its vastly-improved digital assistant, Cortana.

The latest integration will give drivers a host of new features and functionalities, such as making restaurant reservations from their windshield, and the ability to find preferred locations with the help of a virtual map.

Microsoft has already dabbled in the connected vehicle arena, providing in-car technology to such automakers as Ford, BMW, and Fiat.

If you want to see the feature in action, you can visit BestBuy.co in Edge and click on the Cortana icon in the address bar to see available coupons.

Microsoft has been expanding the reach of its voice assistant. Instead of forcing you to glance at the dashboard (taking your eyes off the road) the prototype projects information onto your windshield. He did not mention the names of any potential Taiwanese partners nor did he set up a timetable to develop Cortana-based connected cars.

Recent Cortana developments have made the system smarter by allowing it to scan your email to automatically track flights and shipments. He didn’t clarify which partners Microsoft could potentially work with but the system sounds intriguing. But the cost of creating the technology seems to be a limiting factor. Mr. Shen explained the launch of similar products and services were impeded by rising costs, although further discussions with the company’s Taiwanese partners to explore potential future applications are around the corner. And no timetable or deadline was announced. Unfortunately, Microsoft’s software has been custom for each auto manufacturer, so no standard emerged.

“We will always look at ways to bring high-value experiences, like Cortana, to consumers in a variety of ways”, a Microsoft spokesperson said.