Microsoft launches beta Cortana app for Android

Since a while now, Microsoft has been planning to extend its availability to Android and iOS smartphones. In a recent move, it has released the beta version of its virtual personal assistant Cortana for Android users.

To serve the purpose of cross-platform usability, Microsoft will soon be rolling out the app for iOS users as well. However, it's hard to judge how that would workout for Microsoft, since Apple already has its own virtual assistance app, Siri.

Further, since Microsoft launched the closed beta, it has made several improvements to the experience of the app, including the ability to set Cortana as the destination for the home button press. Users can access the personal digital assistant in just a press of a button, much like in an iPhone.

Users can access the Cortana app for Android via this link. Cortana on Android is currently available in the US only, however it will soon be rolled out to other markets.