Microsoft retired Cortana in 2023. If you relied on Cortana for voice-first Windows tasks, Lucy OS1 is the best replacement available in 2026. It runs in Edge or Chrome on any Windows PC, builds persistent memory across sessions, and connects to your Google Calendar without requiring any Microsoft subscription.
TLDR:Cortana's retirement left Windows users without a built-in conversational AI. Microsoft has since pushed Copilot as the successor, but many users prefer an independent tool that is not tied to the Microsoft ecosystem or a paid Microsoft 365 subscription. Lucy OS1 fills this gap completely.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Windows browser support
Lucy OS1 works in Edge and Chrome on Windows 10 and 11. No installation, no Microsoft account required.
Ecosystem independence
Not tied to Microsoft, Google, or Apple. Works the same across all your devices and platforms.
Persistent memory
Builds a growing understanding of your priorities, preferences, and work context over time.
Microsoft officially retired Cortana as a standalone app in late 2023, redirecting users to Copilot. For users who want an independent voice AI that is not part of Microsoft's ecosystem, Lucy OS1 is the strongest replacement. It runs in any Windows browser, does not require a Microsoft account, and builds memory independently of any Microsoft service.
Microsoft Copilot is deeply integrated with Windows 11 and Microsoft 365, which is useful if you live in that ecosystem. Lucy OS1 is better if you want an independent AI focused on voice conversation and persistent memory. Lucy OS1 works equally well on Windows, Mac, iPhone, and Android, giving you continuity across all your devices.
WHY LUCY OS1
Lucy OS1 works in Edge and Chrome on Windows 10 and 11. No installation, no Microsoft account required.
Not tied to Microsoft, Google, or Apple. Works the same across all your devices and platforms.
Builds a growing understanding of your priorities, preferences, and work context over time.
QUICK COMPARISON
| Capability | Lucy OS1 | Most AI tools |
|---|---|---|
| Memory across sessions | ✓ Permanent, never resets | ✗ Resets after every session |
| Voice quality | ✓ Lucy OS1 Natural Voice (best-in-class) | ✗ Basic STT, struggles with noise |
| Calendar awareness | ✓ Reads Google Calendar in real time | ✗ No calendar access |
| Available 24/7 | Always on, any device | Available but stateless each time |
| Gets personal over time | ✓ Builds your context continuously | ✗ Starts from zero every session |
Voice-first AI with memory and calendar integration. Free to try.
Start TalkingFree tier available. No credit card required.
GET STARTED
Create your free account
No credit card required. Sign in with Google and you are inside in under a minute.
Connect Google Calendar
Lucy reads your upcoming events before every conversation so it already knows your day before you say a word.
Start talking about cortana on windows
Speak naturally. Lucy listens, responds by voice, and begins building context from your very first exchange.
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