Microsoft to include Cortana in Windows-in-the-Car system

Microsoft unveiled its “Windows in the car” concept during last year's Build developer conference in April. This year, the tech giant upgraded its in-car concept to include Cortana, according to NDTV gadgets. 

At the TechDays Taiwan developer conference in Taipei, Samuel Shen, Chief Operating Officer at Microsoft Asia-Pacific Research, revealed that Microsoft has created a system that projects Cortana onto the car’s windshield. This will allow drivers to make restaurant reservations or see their favourite locations using a virtual map.

The firm is also looking forward to collaborate with Taiwanese partners for the project. Taipei Times quoted Shen saying, "We have not launched similar products due to the high cost, but we hope to have further discussions with Taiwanese partners to jointly explore future possibilities."

He did not reveal the names of any potential partners, nor did he set up a schedule to develop Cortana-based connected cars.

In a separate announcement, the tech giant also unveiled a pilot programme in which Cortana would suggest coupons to users while browsing shopping websites on the Microsoft Edge browser. Microsoft has teamed up with Shopular, a coupon provider service to suggest coupons to users.

"For exclusive restaurants, Cortana will show details like hours, directions, menu, reviews and even instant access to reservation options. For chain restaurants, Cortana will list other available locations with easy access to directions and contact," said the blog post.