The software works a lot like Siri and Google Now, but it has some handy features like being able to create complex reminders and... singing. There are also some Xbox-like commands for being able to launch apps, and developers can use the API to let Cortana control in-app actions like queuing up Hulu videos. Cortana learns from how you use your phone, but you can use the Notebook feature to control what she knows. Apparently, MS did bring in Jen Taylor to do the voice, but a synthesized voice is used for the majority of voice responses; otherwise, Taylor would have to record... a lot... of dialog, lol. Her voice is used to give Cortana [url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=6_YL5S2NwkE#t=69]some personality.[/url] Also, you can have the assistant call you Master Chief. [url=http://www.theverge.com/2014/4/2/5570866/cortana-windows-phone-8-1-digital-assistant]Article.[/url] It's important to note that the software is still in Beta (as Siri was when first introduced) so we can expect to see some improvements down the road.