Microsoft closes Cortana on iOS and Android

Microsoft has closed the Cortana app for iOS and Android. It’s the latest in a series of moves to end Cortana support on multiple devices, including Microsoft’s own Surface headphones. The Cortana app for iOS and Android is no longer supported, and Microsoft has removed it from both the App Store and the Google Play Store.

“As we announced in July, we will soon end support for the Cortana app on Android and iOS, as Cortana continues its development as a productivity assistant,” reads a Microsoft support note discovered by MacRumors. “As of March 31, 2021

, the Cortana content you created – such as reminders and lists – will no longer work in the Cortana mobile app, but can still be accessed through Cortana in Windows.” Cortana reminders, lists, and tasks are now available in the Microsoft To Do app instead.

Microsoft first launched Cortana for iOS and Android in December 2015. The app was originally designed to connect Windows 10 PCs and mobile phones, but failed to get a grip despite a major redesign. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella acknowledged the company’s difficulties competing with other digital assistants a few years ago, revealing that Microsoft no longer saw Cortana as a competitor to Alexa and Google Assistant.

Microsoft had once envisioned a future full of Cortana-powered refrigerators, toasters and thermostats. That dream ended earlier this month when the first and only Cortana speaker removed Microsoft’s digital assistant. Other devices such as the Cortana-powered GLAS thermostat are also no longer powered by Microsoft’s digital assistant.

Cortana is not completely finished. Microsoft still sees value in AI conversations, and the company is trying to relocate Cortana as an assistant that can improve Microsoft’s business-focused offering.