Welcome To Windows, Alexa!
Welcome To Windows, Alexa!Microsoft has Cortana, its built-in digital assistant included in Windows 10 operating systems. Apple has Siri, its own digital assistant. Then, of course, there is Amazon’s Alexa. Which, unless you have been living under a rock, might be the most well known digital assistant thanks to Amazon’s marketing campaigns and the devices that have Alexa installed.
Whether it be an Echo (Amazon’s smart speaker), the Kindle Fire HD, or the FireTV, Alexa is quickly becoming the leader of the pack in the world of voice-activated digital assistants.
For a little background on how she works, you can set a “Wake” word, which will wake your device, and she’ll be ready for use. She then uses your voice to perform a variety of things. Add something to your schedule? No problem! Play a certain song? Sure thing! You can set reminders, build lists, and catch up on news. You can even use the Alexa app on your smartphone to control compatible devices.
She is an obvious fan favorite — and, now, she is coming to a Windows computer near you.
In 2017, Microsoft and Amazon announced that they would be implementing a cross-platform integration, allowing her and Cortana to function together.
While we are still waiting for that to come to fruition, Amazon has teamed up with some of the top PC manufacturers. HP, Lenovo, Asus, and Acer will all launch desktops and laptops with Alexa built-in later this year. She will be a special app for the Windows PCs and this is an Amazon standalone project.
You could say Amazon leapfrogged Microsoft and decided to get her out on their own, without playing into Microsoft’s timeframe. Amazon is on the move and putting Alexa in your hands… or closer to your vocal chords.
(Image Source: iCLIPART)