Microsoft announces end of standalone Cortana app for Windows

Microsoft has announced the discontinuation of the standalone Cortana app for Windows in late 2023.

The move comes as Microsoft introduces the Windows Copilot, which appears to have replaced Cortana.

Originally launched in 2014 as a voice assistant for Windows-based mobile devices, Cortana aimed to challenge Apple's Siri and predated Amazon's Alexa. However, it failed to achieve the same level of recognition and popularity.

Over the years, Microsoft scaled back its plans for Cortana, discontinuing its Android and iOS apps in 2021 and removing it from partner manufacturers' devices.

The standalone Cortana app for Windows will be deactivated by the end of the year. Microsoft emphasized that users will still have access to the powerful productivity features in Windows and Edge, which are now empowered with advanced artificial intelligence.