Back in 2017, Microsoft updated the experience users go through when setting up a new Windows 10 PC. Unfortunately, the update added Cortana to the setup process, meaning you’d hear a loud robot talking to you as soon as you turned on your new computer. The feature does let you set everything up with your voice, but honestly, it’s just a lot easier to do everything manually.
In Microsoft’s defense, the feature might come in handy for average Joes and Janes who may think it’s cool to set up their PC with their voice. But when it comes to customers like enterprises, the Cortana setup process can be extremely annoying since a lot of the time, businesses will need to setup multiple PCs at the same time and, in turn, hear Cortana screaming from multiple PCs at the same time.
Luckily, this is changing. According to Microsoft, Cortana will now be disabled by default for those who purchase devices with Pro, Enterprise, and Education versions of Windows 10. Those who buy gadgets with Windows 10 Home pre-installed will still be greeted by the voice assistant upon initial startup, but at least the problem’s being improved for those who are the most annoyed by it.
A statement Microsoft is giving to the press (via Windows Central) can be read below.
Based on feedback, if you clean install Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions of Windows, the Cortana voice-over will be disabled by default. Screen reader users can still choose to start Narrator at any time by pressing WIN + Ctrl + Enter.
Notably, you’ll still be able to enable Cortana setup on these particular versions of Windows 10, but who’s really gonna do that anyway?
Cortana voice setup on Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education should be disabled by default moving forward.
