Microsoft’s Decision to Discontinue Cortana
In a notable shift, Microsoft has officially ceased its support for Cortana on Windows 11. The culmination of this decision has been marked by an update released to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Canary channels, with a gradual roll-out planned for all users. This update ushers in a new era as Cortana bids adieu as a standalone app in Windows.
The Transition Unfolds
The curtains are now drawn on Cortana’s journey as a standalone app on Windows 11. The alteration manifests as a message that greets users when accessing the app. The message succinctly communicates that Cortana in Windows has been deprecated as a standalone entity. Accompanying this notification is a “Learn More” button that guides users to a comprehensive support page, unraveling the implications of this transformation.
It is imperative to note that this deprecation solely pertains to Cortana’s role on Windows. The digital assistant will continue to influence in various capacities, including Outlook mobile, Teams mobile, Microsoft Teams display, and Microsoft Teams Rooms. These domains remain untouched by the waves of change that have swept through Windows 11.
Windows Copilot: The Next Chapter
As Microsoft ushers Cortana out of the spotlight, Windows 11’s AI assistant, Windows Copilot, waits in the wings. With Windows 11, version 23H2, set to launch soon, the narrative seems to shift towards a seamless transition. Windows Copilot is the heir to Cortana’s legacy, poised to offer users a heightened experience. The strategic handling of Cortana’s discontinuation indicates a well-orchestrated shift, with Windows Copilot likely to fill the void left by its predecessor.
While Microsoft has been relatively vague about the specifics of this transition, Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel have already been acquainted with Windows Copilot’s capabilities. The gradual expansion of its availability further signals the eventual transition from Cortana to this more advanced AI assistant.
In the grand tapestry of technological evolution, Cortana’s journey on Windows 11 draws to a close, paving the way for a new era guided by the sophistication of Windows Copilot. As Microsoft recalibrates its approach to digital assistants, users stand poised to embrace a future marked by enhanced capabilities and seamless experiences.