Microsoft has launched Cortana, the personal digital assistant that comes as part of the vendor’s Windows 10 operating system.
According to the vendor, the launch of Cortana was inspired by the nature of ‘real’ personal assistants and it prides itself on its personable features including name pronunciation, calendar coordination and reminders.
The digital assistant also enables reminders and nudges and customers can interact with Cortana via text input or speaking out loud.
Cortana group program manager, Marcus Ash, said designing an intelligent personal assistant for new markets requires abandoning a ‘one-size fits all’ approach, instead embracing local culture, humour and points of interests.
“We recognise this in the development of Cortana, so our local teams talk to real users, study the culture and we adjust Cortana’s personality accordingly to ensure she is everything Australian’s want in a personal assistant.”
Microsoft said Cortana’s accent was inspired by Australian actresses Margot Robbie and Melissa George and it can recognise iconic Australian landmarks and can sing an Australian lullaby.
