Microsoft finally adding Cortana to Xbox

Talk to your gaming device via Kinect or your headset

Even though Cortana is named after a character in the company's venerable gaming franchise Halo, Microsoft today announced it will be adding the voice technology to its Xbox gaming system. While the Xbox One has had voice capability since its release, it is not the more functional voice system of the company's Windows 10 computers.

The announcement was part of a more rounded announcement that the Xbox system "will receive the first of two updates that will help you stay connected with friends on Xbox Live and enjoy even more games across your favorite devices."

With the introduction of Cortana, Microsoft said, "the Xbox and Windows Stores will start to become unified; we will begin to introduce your top PC games with Game Hubs to Xbox Live and more. These updates are crucial to giving our fans around the world a great gaming experience wherever and whatever they play."

Cortana will be rolled out initially as part of Preview. Microsoft promises Cortana voice commands on Xbox One will work with both headsets and Kinect. Although Cortana will help you start a game, it won't likely aid you in solving a puzzle in that next Tomb Raider game.