Leading the additions on Microsoft Launcher 5.7 is a new integration with Cortana. A new look version of the voice assistant is built around engaging in conversations with the users. Microsoft has been using this design in the Cortana beta that arrived on the Microsoft Store recently. Microsoft details the improvements in Cortana in its app information: “As an intelligent assistant, Cortana will find all kinds of info, give you weather and traffic updates, and help you search the web. But Cortana will also get to know you better all the time. Cortana will help track and find the things you’re passionate about, like your favorite artists or sports teams, to give you better recommendations and updates.” Ironically, while I just finished telling readers about Cortana’s demise on Xbox One, it seems the assistant is still getting some love on Android. These improvements are now on Microsoft Launcher 5.7 in Beta. However, they are limited to English and the United States at the moment.
Other Changes
Elsewhere in the new update, Microsoft has made some changes to the Feed area of the launcher. Tabs used to be shown at the top of the screen and were accessible through swiping on the screen. Now they have been moved to the bottom of the screen and require a tap instead of a gesture. This is a beta release for Microsoft Launcher, so some of these features may be unstable. Still, if you want to check out the beta experience, you can find it on Android here. As for the full Microsoft Launcher app, it should receive version 5.7 in the coming weeks. You can download the app from Google Play here.
