Microsoft is giving Cortana a long-needed chat-based overhaul

On Jul 29, 2019

Microsoft is bringing a major face-lift to its Cortana digital assistant on Windows 10. With the release of the Windows 10 20H1 update in early 2020, Cortana will come as a separate app and will feature a new chat-based UI and several other key changes.

As was long rumored, Fast Ring Windows Insiders beta testers running build 18945 the early preview of the 20H1 update can chat with Cortana using a keyboard or mouse, or as a separate app, and not with just voice. The new Cortana experience also still works with existing features like Bing Answers, Assistant conversations, and for creating reminders or alarms and timers.

In addition to the chat-based conversational features, Microsoft is adding in options for both a light theme and dark theme in the Cortana beta app. The overall user interface will feel less intrusive, will take on more rounded corners, and is built on efficient performance.

“We are beginning to roll out a new Cortana experience for Windows 10 as a beta to Windows Insiders in the U.S. This new experience features a brand-new chat-based UI that gives you the ability to type or speak natural-language queries,” said Microsoft.

Microsoft will continue to tweak this new Cortana app with various abilities. The Assistant has now been separated from the operating system as its own app and can be updated separately through the Microsoft Store.

“Not all the features from the previous Cortana experience are available just yet. As a Beta, we plan to add more features over time,” said Microsoft.

To experience this new Cortana, you can enroll a PC in the Fast Ring of the Windows Insider program to download build 18945. Be aware, this preview version of Windows 10 is unstable and is known for its bugs.

Alongside the new Cortana, the preview release also includes compatibility updates to Phone Screen with the Your Phone experience, as well as enhancements to the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

The Windows 10 20H1 update is set for release in early 2020 and is rumored to bring other user interface enhancements to the file explorer. It is not to be confused with the 19H2 update, set for release later this year, which is more focused on addressing bugs and security issues within Windows 10.