Cortana updated with new tips for Windows 10's release

A server-side update by Microsoft now allows Cortana to show cards with hints and tutorials about how to use the personal assistant properly on both the desktop and the phone.

Cortana is one of the most publicized features coming to Windows 10, making the jump to the PC after having been launched last year on Windows Phone. Since then, Microsoft has been adding a flurry of features, from snarky replies and fun games to location based reminders.

In order to allow users to become more familiar with the personal assistant and how they can use her to simplify their lives on both the desktop and the PC, Microsoft has updated Cortana on the backend to now show useful hints on how to ask her to perform different tasks.

If you open the Cortana panel on the desktop, along with the usual list of content, news and reminders curated from your Notebook, you can also see small cards featuring hints on how to use her, along with sample statements for specific functions. For example, you can ask her to "Remind me to pick up the dry cleaning" and she will set an automatic reminder for you.

Clicking on these tip cards brings up a longer list of most of Cortana's functions and directions on using them. Those already proficient in their use of the virtual assistant, however, can always turn the suggestions off in the settings.