Microsoft Outlook Now Allows Users Schedule Meetings by Voice

Microsoft Outlook’s “Play My Emails” feature is getting an upgrade which will allow users to use voice control to organize their emails and day-to-day schedule.

The ‘Play My Emails’ feature which was launched last November lets Microsoft’s AI assistant Cortana read emails out loud to users.

The new feature now allows users to accept or decline meetings as well as set up a meeting with someone. If someone emails you regarding important or time-sensitive information, it will suggest setting a meeting during the next available 30-minute time slot on your calendar. Cortana will also give you an option to view your schedule and select a time to set up a meeting, and it’ll allow you to add emails to your task list.

As part of the new update, there is support for the recently released Microsoft Surface Earbuds, allowing owners to use Outlook voice commands and navigate their emails by swiping back and forth on the surface of the earbuds.

Also, Cortana will soon allow you to quickly join a Microsoft Teams meeting if you’re behind on your schedule, so you can join the meeting within a minute before it’s slated to start or join once it’s in progress.

The new feature will be released by Microsoft first on iOS devices, though the company has said it will roll out on Android in the coming weeks.