14 DAY TRIAL // One of the features that Microsoft has silently added in Threshold 2 is the possibility to let Cortana automatically arrange car rides for users with Uber integration.
Cortana is Microsoft's personal assistant that's now available on PCs as well, and thanks to Threshold 2, it can perform new actions, including ordering a Uber car. Cortana needs access to information such as your schedule, reminders, and location, and the whole process can be performed automatically with zero user interaction.
Microsoft announced this feature earlier this year at the BUILD developer conference and while Uber integration was spotted in October, Threshold 2 is the first version that brings it to users, as WinSuperSite notes.
Redmond explained at BUILD how the Uber integration was supposed to work in Windows 10:
“By integrating with Uber, Cortana will not only recommend a Uber for you at the exact time you need it based on your schedule but will also order it for you. For example, let's say you've purchased a movie ticket online and received an email confirmation.
“Cortana has this information and will display a reminder to you prior to the movie start time. Along with that reminder, Cortana will also give you the option to get a ride with Uber. If you choose Uber, Cortana will automatically fill in the pick-up and drop-off details and request you a ride. You have the option of editing the pick-up and drop-off location. Finally, track the location of your Uber, all from within Cortana.”
How to configure Uber integration
If you're already on Threshold 2 and want to let Cortana take care of your Uber rides, launch the personal assistant and access the Notebook. In the Connected Accounts section, click on Uber and hit the Connect button.
Provide your Uber credentials, allow Cortana to access the service for you and everything's set.
Keep in mind that Cortana must have access to your location and this is obviously mandatory because the personal assistant must let Uber drivers know where you are.