Cortana arrives on iPad with redesigned layout and 20% quicker startup times

Over two years after introducing its digital assistant Cortana to iPhones, Microsoft has now released a dedicated iPad version, featuring a user interface specifically refined for displays measuring 7.9 inches, 9.7 inches, 10.5 inches, and 12.9 inches. The application also delivers a 20% improvement in startup speed compared to the earlier iPhone-only release—a notable advantage given that iOS device owners may frequently close and reopen the app.

Although Cortana on iPad functions solely within the app window and cannot be triggered instantly like Siri due to Apple's restrictions, it retains numerous capabilities from its Windows 10 counterpart. In addition to delivering curated news stories, it can monitor flights and shipments, use email data to generate reminders, and help manage calendar events. The assistant also features a fluid, natural-sounding voice when responding to queries.

The debut of Cortana for iPad arrives at a pivotal moment—just as several major developers have scaled back or abandoned their iPad-specific applications in favor of web-based alternatives, yet interest in smart speakers and voice assistants continues to surge. Competitors like Alexa and Google Assistant ranked among the most downloaded apps during the recent holiday season.

Cortana's global expansion has remained gradual and limited. By March of last year, the iOS version was accessible in only four nations. Currently, the Windows 10 edition operates in 13 regions, compared to Siri's 36. Adding iPad support could help Microsoft broaden Cortana's audience, which was estimated at just under 150 million users last October.

Cortana for iPad comes as a free upgrade to the existing iPhone application and is obtainable through the iOS App Store. However, iPad owners may need to adjust the store's filter to Supports > iPhone Only in order to locate the update.