A beta version of Microsoft’s Cortana digital assistant is now available for Android, as a companion for Windows 10 PC users, competing against the Android-native Google Now.

While the app is said to do “most” of what Cortana can on PC or a Windows phone, it does come with certain limitations.

“For example toggling settings, opening apps or invoking Cortana hands-free by saying ‘Hey Cortana’ are only available on Windows for now,” the company said in a blog post.

“As with all betas, we are continually improving the experience and will incorporate feedback along the way,” it added.

Cortana on Android is currently available in the US only, with plans to roll it out to other markets.

Microsoft initially announced that Windows 10 users will be able to download a companion app for Microsoft’s virtual assistant Cortana to iOS and Android devices back in May.

“We realise that many people use iPhones or Android phones, and we want them to enjoy some of their Windows experience and content while away from their Windows 10 PC,” the company said at the time.

No timeframe has been given for availability of the iOS version.