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Microsoft Band 2 news, update: New features include Cortana for Android users

Miguel Salonga June 06, 2016 05:36 AM EST

If Apple has Siri, Microsoft has Cortana. While Siri has become a household name for those users with iPhone and iPad, Microsoft has introduced Cortana to the public as a very reliable virtual assistant based in a Microsoft device.

Those who have updated to Windows 10 operating system may already know who Cortana is, and it looks like more will be able to interact with the resident Microsoft assistant as Android users now have the chance to know Cortana. This is made possible by the new features of Microsoft Band 2.

Cortana's appearance on Android smartphones is made possible by a new app support started by Microsoft that will enable Android users to use Cortana and her service through the Microsoft Band 2.

Specifically, the Microsoft Health app will require Cortana to utilize its features with Microsoft Band 2. Having Cortana installed by Android phone users in their devices will not only enable the full functions of the Microsoft Health app, but it will also give users access to various commands that Cortana will follow, The Digital Lifestyle reported.

"Cortana is now available on Android â€“ With Cortana on your Band, you can access your personal assistant for instant notifications of important events, communications, and voice-active info without reaching for your phone. Speak into the mic on your Band to Cortana to take actions for you," the Google Play description for Microsoft Health app says.

TechnoBuffalo reported that those Android phone users who also own Microsoft Band 2 connected to their devices can now say various of commands that Cortana will perform. For example, Microsoft Band 2 owners can ask Cortana to check the latest weather condition in a specific area. Likewise, Cortana can arrange reminders for the users with particular voice commands, open messages, and do quick search, among many other things.

Unfortunately, not every Android user around the world can use Cortana as the app support is only available in the United States for the meantime, Engadget has noted.

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