Cortana For Android Leaks Ahead Of Official Debut; How To Download The Functional App

Cortana for Android has long been in the news and it finally appears to be making its entry into the hands of users. Ahead of its official debut later this month alongside Windows 10, Cortana for Android has been leaked online in its fully functional glory.

Android smartphone users can instantly download the beta version of Cortana and start using it to set reminders, check for news, ask questions, get jokes and lot more.

Since the official launch of Cortana for Android is pending, you can start by downloading the APK file. Here are the steps: 

• Download Cortana for Android APK
• Transfer the file to your smartphone via USB cable (if downloaded on a PC)
• Navigate to where the Cortana file was moved and tap open the APK
• Click Install
• Wait for the installation to complete and click open
• Set up Cortana by following the onscreen prompts (Click Next and I Agree when prompted)
• Choose a name Cortana can address you as
• You are all set to use Cortana on your Android smartphone

The APK file for Cortana was released last week and has since been available for download.

"In the spirit of the Windows Insider Program, we are looking for a limited number of people to get their hands on an early version of the app. It's important to keep in mind that is the first public release of the Cortana for Android beta. And that for now, Cortana for Android is only available in the U.S. and China. Over the coming months, we'll continue to deliver frequent updates to the app to expand the features and functionality," ZDNet reports, referring to a note by Microsoft issued last week.

The leaked version of Cortana appears to be the same as the Windows 10 version and is not limited to users in the US and China. In India, the app is available for download from the same link and works perfectly. Below are some screenshots from Cortana for Android:

All features are in line with the upcoming operating system and serve as an alternate to Google Now on Android smartphones.

But if you are waiting for the official launch, you need to wait a little more, as a company spokesperson told ZDNet that the digital voice assistant on the biggest mobile platform will be released "publicly in the next few weeks."