How to Use Windows Cortana for Voice and Search

Cortana, developed by Microsoft, is a virtual assistant integrated into Windows 10 that allows users to interact with their computers using voice commands and perform various tasks, including web searches. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the process of using Cortana for voice and search on your Windows device.

Prerequisites

• A Windows 10 operating system
• A microphone (built-in or external) for voice interactions

Steps

1. Set up Cortana

1. Click on the Start menu button at the bottom left corner of your screen.
2. Select the Settings gear icon, which resembles a gear.
3. In the Settings menu, click on Cortana.
4. Toggle the Cortana switch to On position. This will enable Cortana on your device.

2. Configure Cortana Settings

1. Open Cortana settings by selecting the Settings gear icon in the Cortana menu.
2. Review and adjust the various options according to your preferences. You can customize settings related to permissions, search, notifications, and more. Feel free to explore these options and configure them to suit your needs.

3. Activate Cortana for Voice Commands

1. Locate the Cortana search button on the taskbar. It is represented by a circle icon with a white circle inside.
2. Click on the Cortana search button or use the shortcut key combination Win + C to activate voice commands.
3. Once activated, Cortana will prompt you to speak your command or question.

4. Perform Voice Commands

1. When Cortana is listening, you will see a circular animation indicating it is ready for your command.
2. Speak naturally and clearly into your microphone, addressing your command or question to Cortana. For example, you can say "Hey Cortana, what's the weather like today?" or "Hey Cortana, search for restaurants near me."
3. Cortana will process your command and provide a response either verbally or through a pop-up window, depending on your settings.

5. Use Cortana for Web Search

1. To perform a web search using Cortana, activate voice commands as mentioned in Step 3.
2. Once Cortana is ready for your command, ask a question or state a query related to your web search. For example, you can say "Hey Cortana, search for the latest tech news" or "Hey Cortana, find recipes for chocolate chip cookies."
3. Cortana will process your query and open your default web browser with relevant search results.

6. Customize Cortana Experience

1. To personalize your Cortana experience, click on the Notebook icon in the Cortana menu. It is represented by a small square with three horizontal lines inside.
2. Explore the various available options in the Notebook menu, such as Reminders, Lists, Skills, and Music. You can add or remove information, adjust settings, and integrate Cortana with other services or apps.

Congratulations! You have now learned how to use Windows Cortana for voice and search. Enjoy the convenience of interacting with your device using voice commands and accessing information with ease.