Microsoft has closed down its Cortana application for iOS and Android. It’s the latest in a series of moves to end support for Cortana across multiple devices, including Microsoft’s own Surface Headphones. The Cortana application for iOS and Android is no longer supported, and Microsoft has removed it from both the App Store and Google’s Play Store.
“As we announced in July, we will soon be ending support for the Cortana app on Android and iOS, as Cortana continues its evolution as a productivity assistant,” reads a Microsoft support note spotted by MacRumors. “As of March 31, 2021, the Cortana content you created–such as reminders and lists–will no longer function in the Cortana mobile app, but can still be accessed through Cortana in Windows.” Cortana reminders, lists, and tasks are now available in the Microsoft To Do app instead.
Microsoft first launched Cortana for iOS and Android in December 2015. The application was initially intended to interface Windows 10 PCs and cell phones, yet neglected to acquire traction despite a big redesign. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recognized the organization’s difficulties in competing with other digital assistants a couple of years ago, revealing that Microsoft no longer considered Cortana to be a contender to Alexa and Google Assistant.
Microsoft had once envisioned a future full with Cortana-powered fridges, toasters, and thermostats. That dream came a conclusion recently when the only Cortana speaker removed Microsoft’s digital assistant. Different gadgets like the Cortana-powered GLAS thermostat are likewise not, at this point fueled by Microsoft’s digital assistant.
Cortana isn’t totally finished, however. Microsoft actually sees value in conversational AI and the company is trying to reposition Cortana as an associate that can improve Microsoft’s enterprise-focused offerings.
