Microsoft Announces Cortana, Their Answer To Siri

Microsoft has revealed their new voice search application for Windows Phone 8.1, now officially known as Cortana.

In truth, however, the voice app really has as little a connection to the Halo series as possible. Replacing the OS’s Bing search functionality, Cortana will use select features from both Siri and Google Now. The app is represented by a circular animated icon, which will have specific animations while talking or thinking.

A new feature Cortana will have over its fellow voice search apps is a notebook system, that will allow it to collect and track down data such as contact information, location data, reminders, etc. It will also be able to track down mentions and flight information in emails.

If you really want to go HAM on the Halo connection, you can instruct Cortana to give you a nickname, like Master Chief like you’re aching to do. We make no guarantees that Windows Phone Cortana will have the same voice or feel anything  like interacting with Cortana in the Halo games.

Microsoft is expected to reveal Cortana, along with Windows Phone 8.1, in the next Build conference, which will be held in San Francisco this April 2 to 4.

Image is from Halo