Microsoft has this month opened up its Cortana personal assistant technology to third-party developers, allowing the creation of new Cortana skills that enable users to engage with your software more naturally. This move is set to significantly expand the capabilities and reach of Cortana, making it a more versatile and powerful tool for both developers and users.
Expanding Cortana’s Reach
The new Cortana Skills Kit supports Windows 10, Android, and iOS, as well as standalone devices based on the Cortana Devices SDK. This broad compatibility ensures that developers can create skills that work seamlessly across a wide range of devices and platforms. Cortana is already enjoying over 141 million monthly users, and this number is expected to grow as more developers create innovative skills.
One of the key advantages of the Cortana Skills Kit is its flexibility. Developers can use the code they’ve already developed for Alexa, the Microsoft Bot Framework, or Cortana VCD as the basis for their new Cortana skill. This means that existing investments in voice technology can be leveraged to create new and exciting experiences for Cortana users.
We’ve made it easy to get started. Use the code you’ve already developed for Alexa, the Microsoft Bot Framework, or Cortana VCD as the basis for your new Cortana skill. Cortana skills aren’t tethered to one platform or device—they work across Windows 10, Android, and iOS so you can reach 145 million monthly users. Your Cortana skills will work out of the box with all kinds of products built on the Cortana Devices SDK—from car to home, big screen to no screen, including a new Harman device in 2017.
Real-World Applications and Future Potential
The potential applications for Cortana skills are vast. For example, in the automotive industry, Cortana can be integrated into car systems to provide hands-free navigation, control music playback, and even manage smart home devices while on the go. In the home, Cortana can be used to control smart appliances, set reminders, and provide personalized news updates.
Moreover, the integration of Cortana into various devices means that users can have a consistent experience regardless of the device they are using. Whether it’s a smartphone, a smart speaker, or a car infotainment system, Cortana can provide a seamless and intuitive user experience.
The introduction of the Cortana Skills Kit also opens up new opportunities for businesses. Companies can develop custom skills tailored to their specific needs, enhancing customer engagement and providing new ways to interact with their products and services. For instance, a retail company could create a Cortana skill that allows customers to check product availability, place orders, and track deliveries using voice commands.
For more information on the new Microsoft Cortana Skills Kit, jump over to the official Microsoft website for details by following the link below.
Source: Microsoft
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