How to Change the Language for Cortana in Windows 10

This updated guide explains how to Change the Language for Cortana in Windows 10 through clear steps, practical examples, and important checks that help prevent common errors.

Instructions to enable Cortana and use this virtual assistant on Windows 10

Cortana on Windows is available in certain regions and languages. If Cortana is not available for your Windows device, you can still search for files on your device in the search box on the taskbar. Cortana is also available on other platforms, such as Android and iOS.

Cortana uses the same language as your regional language by default, but you can specify specific regional languages for Cortana.

The following is a list of regions where Cortana is available and the corresponding languages that Cortana is optimized for each.

Australia: English
Brazil: Portuguese
Canada: English / French
Chinese: Chinese (simplified)
French: French
German: German
India: English
Italian: Italian
Japan: Japanese
Mexico: Spanish
Spanish: Spanish
United Kingdom: English
United States: English

This guide will show you how to change the Cortana language to a specific regional language in Windows 10.

Note : This guide is not available with the new Cortana Beta application.

Here's how:

1. Open Settings and click the Cortana icon .

2. Follow step 3 (default) or step 4 (to change) below for what you may need to do.

3. To restore the default Cortana language, click Talk to Cortana on the left and click the Default language button in the Cortana language settings on the right.

Change the Language for Cortana in Windows 10 example screenshot 1 — Click the Default language button

Note : The Default language button will only be available if you have previously changed the Cortana language.

4. To change the Cortana language, click Talk to Cortana on the left and select the language you want in the drop-down menu of Cortana language settings .

Change the Language for Cortana in Windows 10 example screenshot 2 — Click Talk to Cortana on the left and select the language you want

The corresponding voice pack from optional features will be automatically downloaded and installed to the PC, if it is not already installed.

Change the Language for Cortana in Windows 10 example screenshot 3 — The corresponding voice pack from the optional features will be automatically downloaded

FAQ

What is the easiest way to Change the Language for Cortana in Windows 10?

Start with the requirements in this guide, then follow each step in order. Check the result after every major change so problems are easier to identify.