A new build of Windows 10 has leaked out, with early versions of new consumer features in tow. The big difference in this build from others is the presence of Cortana – an intelligent personal assistant, as well as a revamped Xbox application.
Cortana is said to be only partially functional in the recent build, though interests, the notebook, and reminders can all be accessed.
The other major new addition is the new Xbox app. The app lets users view the Xbox Store, their achievements, friends list, and activity feeds.
Microsoft has also added new animations to the TaskView switcher in Windows 10, and the company appears to be moving towards removing the traditional Control Panel by updating the settings app with a familiar view that’s similar to Control Panel. The settings button has also been removed from the Charms Bar, demonstrating that Microsoft is clearly focusing on improving access to settings with Windows 10.
The Windows Store in Windows 10 build 9901 has also been tweaked thanks to a new beta app that’s built-in. Unlike the current store, music and film / TV shows are included alongside apps and games. This could mean Microsoft is closer to integrating its Xbox Music and Xbox Video stores into the main Windows Store to offer all content in a single location.
The company plans to detail those improvements at a January press event
