With the latest update to its Cortana digital assistant on Android devices, Microsoft revealed that the app will no longer support its Band 2 wearable device. But while that functionality is being lost, a new feature is on the way.
As MSPoweruser reports, Microsoft has begun testing new support for Cortana on the Android lock screen, starting with those enrolled in its Android beta program. This new level of integration will allow users to access the assistant with a single swipe from the lock screen.
The new feature won"t replace the existing lock screen on your device, simply adding a Cortana logo from which you can swipe to view the latest information from the assistant, without unlocking the phone. There are obvious security implications to consider there, but it"s worth remembering that this feature is only being beta-tested at present, and Microsoft may well add further controls to protect sensitive personal information before it becomes more widely available.
You can download the current version of Cortana for Android via the Google Play Store, and you can opt in to the beta within the app itself by tapping the "me" icon at the top right of the app, and then selecting "Join Beta Program".
Source and lower image: MSPoweruser