Windows 10 update: Microsoft introduces Australian version of Cortana

Microsoft’s Australian version of personal assistant Cortana tells jokes and sings a lullaby in an accent “inspired” by two stars.

The accent of the Aussie Cortana was “inspired” by actors Melissa George, left, and Margot Robbie, Microsoft says. Pictures: Getty

Australian users of Windows 10 now have a robot to talk to with the rollout of Microsoft’s Cortana personal assistant here.

And Cortana apparently tells jokes and speaks with an Australian accent “inspired by Margot Robbie and Melissa George”, says Microsoft.

It says Cortana — its rival to Apple’s Siri and Google Now — is being made available as part of the first major update to Windows 10, announced today.

It says its Australianised Cortana “celebrates the nation’s rich culture, history and people, such as indigenous legends, rugged bushrangers and sports stars”.

“Inspired by real personal assistants, Cortana acts like one — getting to know you and helping you manage your calendar, find things on your PC, track packages, find files, chat with you, and tell jokes.”

The more you use Cortana, the more personalised your experience will be.

“Friendly, funny, attentive and relatable, Cortana can sing you an Australian lullaby, identify iconic landmarks, and even has a local accent inspired by the likes of Hollywood actresses Margot Robbie and Melissa George,” Microsoft said in a statement.

“Designing an intelligent personal assistant for new markets requires abandoning a ‘one-size fits all’ approach, instead embracing local culture, humour and points of interest,” says Marcus Ash, group program manager for Cortana.

“We recognise this in the development of Cortana, so our local teams talk to real users, study the culture and we adjust Cortana’s personality accordingly to ensure she is everything Australian’s want in a personal assistant.”

Microsoft says the Cortana experience starts with it asking your name and checking its pronunciation.

“Over time she asks questions about you to get to know your preferences and then acts upon them.”