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Microsoft has shut down its Cortana app for iOS and Android. This is the latest in a series of moves to end Cortana support on multiple devices, including Microsoft’s own Surface Headphones. The Cortana app for iOS and Android is no longer supported, and Microsoft has removed it from the Google App Store and Play Store.
“As we announced in July, we will be ending support for the Cortana app on Android and iOS soon, as Cortana continues to evolve as a productivity assistant,” read a support note from Microsoft spotted by MacRumors. “As of March 31, 2021, Cortana content you’ve created, such as reminders and lists, will no longer work in the Cortana mobile app, but will still be accessible through Cortana on 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 app was originally designed to connect Windows 10 PCs and mobile phones, but failed to gain traction despite a redesign in depth. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella acknowledged the company’s struggles to compete with other digital assistants a few years ago, revealing that Microsoft no longer viewed Cortana as a competitor to Alexa and Google Assistant.
Microsoft once envisioned a future filled with Cortana-powered refrigerators, toasters, and thermostats. That dream ended earlier this month when the first and only Cortana speaker removed Microsoft’s digital assistant. Other devices like the Cortana powered GLAS thermostat are no longer powered by Microsoft’s digital assistant.
However, Cortana is not completely finished. Microsoft still sees the value of conversational AI, and the company is trying to reposition Cortana as an assistant capable of improving Microsoft’s business-focused offerings.
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