Windows Phone 8.1 Release Date: A Closer Look At Voice Assistant Cortana

While all of us are waiting for the Windows Phone 8.1 release date for our phones, it is worth noting that the update comes with a number of interesting features never before seen in the Microsoft platform. 

One of these is the voice assistant Cortana.

Just like Siri in iOS and Google Now for Android, Cortana is a program that will 'learn' almost everything about you, from basic details such as your name and location to more elaborate information which include your interests, hobbies, schedule, and the latest trending news you want to be updated with. 

Of course, Cortana would not work at all if you do not have a constant Internet connection for your phone as is the case with both Siri and Google Now. Cortana can also remind you regarding meetings, things-to-do, notes, and all the 'little' things which are oftentimes difficult to track and remember. 

According to reports, Cortana will be connected with Microsoft's Bing search engine which would allow her to know the answer to questions you throw at her. In fact, WP 8.1's voice assistant can handle even academic type of questions once Bing has been fully integrated into its system. 

"This fall, she will be able to point the way to a wealth of information from the academic community," Microsoft said during its 15th annual Microsoft Research Faculty Summit. "Cortana is powered by Bing, and soon, that search engine will have academic data tightly integrated and prominently featured on its search pages." 

However, Cortana is not all-serious as a report from Windows Phone Central claims that the voice assistant has personality and witty charm of its own, just like Siri. This means Cortana is not just an assistant but a companion of sorts for WP users. 

Recent reports state that the Windows Phone 8.1 release date would begin this month and continue until August for supported devices.