15 Things You Can Do With Cortana on Windows 10

Introducing Cortana in Windows 10

Cortana represents a significant addition to the features offered within Windows 10. Microsoft’s intelligent assistant transitions from its origins on Windows Phone to now being available on desktop computers.

A wide range of functionalities are accessible through Cortana. It’s important to note that this tool isn’t limited to voice commands; text-based inputs are also fully supported.

Understanding Cortana’s Capabilities

Upon launching Cortana, users are presented with information curated based on their perceived interests. This proactive approach extends to providing timely notifications, such as alerts to ensure punctual arrival at scheduled appointments.

Cortana delivers a substantial amount of information without requiring direct interaction. It actively monitors and presents relevant details to the user.

Global Access to Cortana

Currently, Cortana’s availability is geographically restricted. However, a method exists to enable Cortana regardless of your location, effectively bypassing these limitations.

This allows users worldwide to experience the benefits of Microsoft’s virtual assistant, even in regions where it isn’t officially supported.

Scheduling Reminders Based on Time, Location, and Contacts

Further Reading: A Guide to Utilizing and Customizing Cortana in Windows 10

Cortana incorporates a robust reminder system, offering functionality beyond simple time-based alerts.

Initiate the process through the Reminders icon or by voicing the command "Remind me." Reminders can be configured to activate at a designated time, upon arrival at a particular location, or during a conversation with a specific contact. Alternatively, a direct command such as "Remind me to take medication at 8pm" or "Remind me to purchase milk upon reaching [store name]" will instantly generate a reminder.

Leveraging Natural Language Search with Cortana

Cortana provides the ability to locate files on your PC using natural language queries. Instead of specific commands, you can pose questions like "find pictures from August" or "find documents about Windows" to quickly retrieve relevant images or files pertaining to Windows.

This functionality represents an enhanced version of the standard Windows search feature. It offers a more intuitive and conversational approach compared to traditional search operators.

How Natural Language Search Improves File Access

The core benefit lies in its ease of use. Users can formulate searches as they would in a normal conversation, eliminating the need to remember complex syntax.

For instance, requesting "show me presentations created last week" will yield all presentation files modified within the previous seven days.

This method streamlines the process of finding information, making it more accessible to all users.

Song Identification with Cortana

Cortana possesses the capability to identify music playing in your vicinity, mirroring the functionality found in services like Siri, Google Now, and specialized applications such as Shazam.

To initiate song recognition, simply state "What is this song?" Cortana will then leverage your device's microphone to analyze the audio and determine the corresponding track.

Limitations of the Feature

While highly effective with pre-recorded audio, the accuracy of this feature may be diminished when attempting to identify live musical performances.

The system relies on a clear audio signal to successfully match the music to its database.

Utilize Google (or an Alternative Search Engine) Rather Than Bing for Web Searches

Related: A Guide to Configuring Microsoft Edge to Prioritize Google Over Bing

Bing provides the underlying technology for Cortana. Consequently, when Cortana encounters a query it cannot directly resolve, it initiates a Bing search within your designated default web browser. While Cortana acknowledges your preferred browser – be it Chrome or Firefox – it consistently overrides your default search engine preference, defaulting to Bing.

It is possible to configure Cortana to employ Google, or another search provider such as DuckDuckGo or Yahoo!, through the use of the Chrometana extension for Google Chrome. This extension intercepts Bing search redirects initiated by Cortana and automatically reroutes them to Google, or your selected search engine, effectively compelling Cortana to utilize Google for its searches.

This functionality is contingent upon Chrome being established as your primary web browser.

Utilizing Cortana for Calculations and Conversions

Cortana possesses the capability to swiftly execute mathematical computations. It's important to note that input can be typed directly into the Cortana search field, eliminating the need to verbally articulate lengthy numerical values.

Users can request Cortana to solve a mathematical problem, such as "324234 * 34234," or initiate a unit conversion, for instance, "55 uk pounds to usd." This functionality extends to both currency exchange and conversions involving various other measurement units.

Calculations: Cortana can handle complex arithmetic.
Unit Conversions: Easily convert between different units of measurement.
Currency Exchange: Obtain current exchange rates and convert currencies.

The system supports a wide range of conversions, making it a versatile tool for quick informational needs.

This feature streamlines tasks that previously required a separate calculator or online conversion tool.

Flight and Package Tracking with Cortana

Cortana offers the capability to monitor both flights and packages, utilizing either the flight number or the package’s tracking identifier. Simply input the relevant number into Cortana’s search field; direct copying and pasting is also supported.

This allows for immediate access to the most current status information regarding your shipment or travel plans.

How to Track

Flights: Utilize the flight number to receive updates.
Packages: Enter the tracking number provided by the carrier.

The current status will then be displayed, providing you with real-time information.

Direct Answers with Cortana

Cortana leverages the Bing search engine to deliver concise responses to frequently asked queries. This functionality mirrors that of Google’s Knowledge Graph. Users can pose questions such as "What constitutes the world’s highest structure?" or "Who currently holds the office of President of the United States?" and receive an instantaneous reply.

How Cortana Finds Information

The system is designed to quickly access and present factual data. It achieves this by utilizing Bing’s extensive database of information.

Cortana’s ability to provide immediate answers streamlines the information-seeking process. This eliminates the need to navigate through multiple search results.

Examples of Questions

“What is the capital of France?”
“How tall is Mount Everest?”
“Who wrote Hamlet?”

These are just a few examples of the types of questions Cortana can answer directly. The range of topics covered is quite broad.

The goal is to offer a convenient and efficient way to obtain information without requiring extensive searching.

Weather Information with Cortana

Cortana offers a convenient method for obtaining rapid weather updates for various locations. Simply stating "Weather" will display the current conditions for your present location.

To inquire about the weather in a specific city, use the command "weather in [location]". This will provide you with the forecast for the designated urban center.

Accessing Weather Details

Cortana streamlines the process of accessing meteorological data. The system is designed for quick and efficient information retrieval.

Location-based weather is instantly available with a single command. Alternatively, specify a city to receive a targeted forecast.

Using "Weather" provides your local forecast.
"Weather in [location]" delivers forecasts for other cities.

This functionality allows users to stay informed about conditions wherever they are or plan to travel.

Navigation Assistance with Cortana

Cortana is capable of providing navigational guidance. Simply request "directions to [location]" and Cortana will launch the pre-installed Windows 10 Maps application, displaying a route to the specified destination.

This functionality allows for quick and easy access to mapping services directly through voice command.

Utilizing Cortana for Alarms

Beyond simple reminders, Cortana is capable of managing alarms for you. To initiate an alarm, simply provide the command "set alarm for [time]" to Cortana. This action will then generate an alarm within the Alarms & Clock application.

The Alarms & Clock app serves as the central location for all your alarms, allowing for comprehensive management and adjustments.