Cortana integration in Windows 10 for desktops confirmed with new build, to include other features

Microsoft's Windows 10 operating system has been highly anticipated for release, ever since Windows 8/8.1 failed to live up to the hype they created before launch.

One major reason that has got the attention of both MS loyalists and others is the return of the iconic start button within Windows 10.

A Technical preview of Windows 10, albeit for enterprise users, was released recently and currently available to download. However, the beta release does not feature the Start Button.

A new Windows 10 build bearing number 9901 has been leaked recently and features the eagerly awaited Cortana integration feature.

According to The Verge, that has installed and tested out the newly surfaced build, Cortana is clearly visible and heading the search interface in Windows 10 and the PDA is responding efficiently to both text and voice commands, similar to that on current Windows Phones.

The above development assumes significance as Cortana's presence is seemingly confirmed on Windows 10 desktops, but the Verge report indicates that Cortana within the new build [9901] is still at a nascent stage, yet functional.

Therefore, users of the final Windows 10 release can expect the PDA to incorporate better stability and features.

Alongside Cortana, the 9901 Windows 10 build incorporates a new Xbox application for integration with consoles, thereby enabling gamers to access vital game-related information such as activity feeds, achievements and Xbox Store via their desktops.

Also, Windows 10 users can expect brand new animation in the operating system's Task View Switcher, and an improved 'Settings' application, along with a tweaked Windows Store which should integrate both the Xbox Video and Xbox Music Stores within, thus potentially allowing users to access all content in once centralised location.

Return of the Start menu

A new 'Start Menu' will grace Windows 10 for desktops. Considering the flak it received for eliminating the iconic start button within Windows 8, Microsoft during its Build conference earlier in the year showcased a prototype of a new 'Mini Start Menu'.

The prototype showcased floating Live Tiles in the Start Menu that lets users access both metro-style and conventional Windows Apps.

This aspect, once official, will be the major highlight of the operating system.

Focus on desktop users

On desktops, the Windows 10 interface is expected to boot as default rather than let users choose between traditional Windows and metro-style user interfaces.

Windows 10, once official, is expected to dynamically fit in the device, which it runs. Users on different Windows platforms should see Windows 10 "differently".