Say What? Microsoft Invites iPhone Users To Ditch Siri, Beta Test Cortana

Microsoft debuted its virtual private assistant called Cortana on Windows Phone, later the assistant was expanded to other platforms as well, such as Windows-powered PCs and even Android. The company has started hiring Cortana for iOS beta testers. So after delivering the Cortana for Android beta now they thought of developing Cortana for iOS beta.

Although the functionality will be very helpful, because it’s “just an app” there will be certain things that Cortana does on Windows phones that won’t work on Android devices or iPhones.

Aside from that, though, Cortana will help iOS users with basic tasks such as web searching, reminders, scheduling events and sending emails.

Microsoft has rolled out a new batch of updates for the pre-installed Windows 10 apps, so in case you’re already running this new OS version, have a look in the Windows Store to get them as soon as possible. Cortana is also described to by Windows to be THAT clever personal assistant that you can ever have.

Microsoft’s Windows Insider program essentially allows interested users to sign up and receive early builds of Windows 10 for desktop, mobile, Xbox One and IoTs that are earlier available only to developers.

Since Cortana is becoming a serious presence in the life of a great number of Windows users the Cortana for iOS beta could be exactly what these users want. Unfortunately, they weren’t exactly forthcoming with a release date, but said that Microsoft is expected to finalize the “bits” this week and prepare the update for mass consumption.

In a post on the Windows blog Thursday, Terry Myerson, executive vice president of the Windows and Devices Group at Microsoft, encouraged users who haven’t yet upgraded to Windows 10 to consider the move.

A new study reveals that Apple’s Siri and Microsoft’s Cortana are the voice assistants with the highest distraction rankings in the industry. Those who want to participate in the Beta, must be a member of the Insider Program and complete a survey. In May, the firm announced Android and iOS versions of Cortana.