Microsoft Cortana update: virtual assistant can be activated on Android through voice commands

PC World reports that Cortana can be activated through voice commands such as, "Hey Cortana!" which is similar to Apple's "Hey Siri" or Google's "OK Google."

To activate this feature, you must have version 1.0.0.289 and go to settings to tick the "Hey Cortana" check box. The feature is currently in beta and is open to public. If you're tech savvy and curious about Microsoft's virtual assistant, you can become a tester by going to Google Play and downloading it to become a tester.

According to the Green Bot, when the app launches, it will give you a tutorial and asks for your information and Microsoft account ID. This will sync your device with Windows 10.

There are limitations to using Cortana. Tech Times report that the assistant only works if the phone is already unlocked or when the app is already running. Cortana's voice activation feature is not completely hands-free as you need to perform commands on your smart phone. Microsoft is not the only one experiencing this problem. Case in point is Google's "OK Google" which cannot be easily activated because it needs device-specific drivers.

It is unclear when Microsoft will be officially launching Cortana for Android. The company has plans to develop Cortana for iOS as well.

Additionally, Cortana can also be linked to Xbox Live accounts and Office 365 and LinkedIn, PCW reports.  When Cortana is enabled in the Xbox Live accounts, it will preview a "Halo 5: Guardians" Launch Countdown. Cortana is also a hidden New Xbox One Experience feature as it will be fused with Windows 10 capabilities such as voice search, calendar and many more.

To activate this feature in the NXOE, you need to have an active account. Go the left corner of desktop and click Notebook icon to go to the Cortana tick box. Go to Connected Accounts and turn it on. Once done, it will ask you to input your Microsoft username and password to continue.

Activating Cortana on Xbox may prove to be useful for avid gamers as it can remind them about several upcoming occasions, reminders and important appointments as well as emails. In addition to seeing friends and their activities on dash, Cortana may other features in store once it becomes more integrated in the future.

The NXOE will be released this November.

"Introducing a completely re-imagined Xbox One experience that integrates the speed and versatility of Windows 10. Get faster access to the games, friends, and features that matter most. Start and join parties, add friends, and check messages without leaving full-game mode. View your friends' activity feeds, find new challengers, and see what's trending on Xbox Live in the new Community area," Microsoft posted in their website. "Whether you want to discover new movies and shows with the OneGuide or play with the best gamers on Xbox Live, the New Xbox One Experience gives you what you want, when you want it."