Microsoft announces voice search support for Bing users

Microsoft has introduced a voice mode feature to Bing's application on Edge for desktop users. Bing's chatbot has been updated to allow users to ask questions using their voice, with the chatbot responding in a voice of its own.  

Similar to the mobile version of Edge, all you need to do is select the microphone button on Bing's chat box and answer your question. Microsoft shared in an official blogpost that the chatbot currently understands English, Japanese, French, German, and Mandarin. They also mentioned that more languages will be added in the future. 

Microsoft recently announced the addition of voice mode in Bing Chat on desktop, shortly after revealing their plans to phase out Cortana on Windows. This means that users will now be able to use voice commands to perform tasks like setting timers, creating reminders, and opening applications. Microsoft is now focusing on developing Copilot, an AI-driven feature for Windows 11, which offers more advanced capabilities as an alternative to Cortana. 

Back in 2015, Cortana was introduced as a feature of Windows 10, allowing users to accomplish various tasks. However, over the years, Microsoft has gradually deprioritised Cortana within Windows. With the release of Windows 11, Cortana's role underwent a significant shift, as it was noticeably absent from the initial setup experience and lost its once-prominent position.  

Microsoft decided to discontinue the Cortana app for both iOS and Android in 2020. In a recent development, the company has also ended support for Cortana on several devices, including the Surface headphones.