What you need to know
- A new Cortana Beta app recently appeared on the Microsoft Store.
- The move to the Microsoft Store should break Cortana's dependence on new Windows 10 updates.
- In order to compete with Alexa, it needs frequent updates.
- The new beta experience was first spotted hidden in the 20H1 Insider build.
It's no secret that Cortana, the digital assistant, needs to be revamped. Luckily, Microsoft is working on making the experience better. A few weeks ago, we noticed that a "Cortana Beta" app was available on the Microsoft Store. While you could easily download it, this new version of Cortana didn't work. It was unclear when Windows 10 Insiders would be able to test out the new features.
Luckily, that changed today. According to a report by Aggiornamenti Lumia, "Cortana Beta is now active and working for Insider users registered in the fast channel (not Skip Ahead)." Many users on social media are also reporting the same.
If you happen to be in the Fast ring, be sure to check out the Cortana Beta on the Microsoft Store. You can download it by following the link here. This will take you to the Microsoft Store where you should be able to download it for free.
Cheap PC accessories we love
Take a gander at these awesome PC accessories, all of which will enhance your Windows experience.
Anker 4 port USB 3.0 hub ($10 at Amazon)
Whether on a desktop or laptop PC, you always need more ports to connect things to. This hub gives you an additional four USB 3.0 Type A ports.
Ikea Fixa Cable Management System ($11 at Amazon)
This IKEA cable management kit is your ticket to a clean setup. It's simple and functional.
NZXT Puck ($20 at Amazon)
This clever little accessory has powerful magnets on the rear to make it stick to any of the metal panels on your PC case or anything else. It's great for hanging accessories like headsets.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Galaxy Buds Live earbuds review: Are these pricey Bluetooth beans worth it?
What if headphones, were beans? That's what Samsung asked itself, and then ultimately answered with the Galaxy Buds Live. But are these pricey earbuds worth it? Or do they not even amount to a hill of beans. Beans beans beans beans.
Review: Until you Fall will punish you, but it's worth it
Until You Fall is a VR roguelite that'll challenge your skills with a blade, your wits, and your arm muscles. It's now available on the Oculus Quest, Oculus Quest 2, PlayStation VR (PSVR), and PC VR platforms including SteamVR and Oculus Rift.
The ThinkPad X1 Fold from Lenovo is now available for preorders
Lenovo's revolutionary ThinkPad X1 Fold is now available to preorder for $2,500 (plus accessories), with shipments later this fall. Featuring a 13.3-inch OLED display that supports inking and folds, this not-a-laptop PC transcends categorization and is set to usher in a new era of mobile computing.
Best Skins and Cases for Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 in 2020
The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 is one of the best convertible laptops on the market, but what type of skin or case should you get for it? Here's what we think.