Voice search is a convenient way to interact with your Windows 10 system hands-free. Whether you need to open apps, search the web, or get directions, Windows 10’s voice search feature can make it easier to accomplish tasks quickly. This feature uses Cortana, Microsoft’s digital assistant, to carry out voice commands. Here’s how you can turn on and set up voice search on Windows 10.
1. Check Your Device’s Microphone
Before you begin using voice search, ensure that your device’s microphone is working correctly. Here’s how to check:
- Check Microphone Settings:
- Right-click the speaker icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of the screen).
- Select Sounds > Recording.
- Make sure the correct microphone is selected as the default device. If it’s not listed, you might need to troubleshoot or connect an external microphone.
- Test the Microphone:
- Speak into the microphone and check if the input bar moves, indicating that your microphone is picking up sound.
2. Enable Cortana for Voice Search
Cortana is the digital assistant built into Windows 10 that powers voice search. To use voice search, Cortana must be enabled. Here’s how to do it:
- Open Settings:
- Click on the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon).
- Go to Cortana Settings:
- In the Settings window, click on Cortana (or Cortana & Search, depending on your version).
- Enable Cortana:
- Under the Cortana section, toggle the switch to On for the option Let Cortana respond to “Hey Cortana”. This will allow voice activation of Cortana.
- Sign In with Your Microsoft Account:
- If you’re not already signed in, you’ll be prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account to enable Cortana. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete this.
3. Activate Voice Search Using “Hey Cortana”
Once Cortana is enabled, you can activate voice search by simply saying “Hey Cortana”. Here’s how to set it up:
- Enable Voice Activation:
- In the Cortana settings, ensure the “Let Cortana respond to ‘Hey Cortana’” toggle is switched On.
- Set Up Voice Activation:
- Cortana will prompt you to train it to recognize your voice. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the voice training process.
- This process involves repeating a few phrases so Cortana can better understand your voice commands.
4. Using Voice Search on the Start Menu
In addition to activating Cortana with your voice, you can also search for files, apps, and settings using your voice through the Start menu:
- Open the Start Menu:
- Click on the Start menu button or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
- Use the Microphone:
- Click on the microphone icon next to the search bar in the Start menu, and begin speaking. Cortana will interpret your command and show relevant search results.
5. Use Voice Commands to Search the Web
You can also use Cortana to perform web searches with your voice:
- Activate Cortana:
- Either click the Cortana icon or say “Hey Cortana” to activate the voice assistant.
- Speak Your Search Query:
- Ask a question or provide a search term, such as “What’s the weather like today?” or “Find me a good Italian restaurant near me.”
- Cortana Will Display Results:
- Cortana will display web search results in the form of a list, and may even provide direct answers or perform actions (e.g., opening a website).
6. Set Up Additional Voice Features
Cortana can also perform additional tasks, such as setting reminders, sending emails, or controlling system settings. To set up these features:
- Set Reminders and Alarms:
- Ask Cortana to set reminders like, “Remind me to call John at 3 PM” or “Set an alarm for 8 AM.”
- Send Emails and Messages:
- Use commands such as “Send an email to [Contact Name]” or “Text [Contact Name], ‘I’ll be there in 10 minutes’.”
- Control System Settings:
- You can also adjust system settings using voice commands, such as “Turn off Bluetooth,” “Open Device Manager,” or “Increase volume.”
7. Disable Voice Search (Optional)
If you no longer wish to use voice search or Cortana, you can disable the feature:
- Turn Off “Hey Cortana”:
- Go to Settings > Cortana and toggle “Let Cortana respond to ‘Hey Cortana’” to Off.
- Disable Cortana:
- In Cortana settings, you can toggle the option to turn off Cortana entirely, or you can choose to stop Cortana from tracking your activities, which will limit its functionality.
Conclusion
Voice search in Windows 10 is a convenient and powerful tool, especially if you want to improve your productivity or simply enjoy hands-free operation. By enabling Cortana and using the “Hey Cortana” feature, you can easily perform searches, set reminders, and control your computer with just your voice. Whether you’re looking for quick information, opening apps, or controlling system settings, voice search can make your Windows 10 experience faster and more efficient.