Microsoft was originally a leader in car technology; however, as smartphones started to gain popularity, Microsoft was not able to keep up with the high demands of the users, PC World reports.

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Currently, Microsoft Corporation is teaming up with partner companies in Taiwan to develop its project connected cars. This includes a virtual assistant that recognizes voice commands.

With hard to beat rivals Siri from Apple Carplay and Google Now from Google Android Auto, both able to offer navigation, traffic information, music playback, calls and messages on top of other in-car features, Cortana is yet to show its abilities.

Recently, Microsoft has been strengthening the abilities of its assistant. Starting with the Windows Phone, Cortana has now lengthened its reach to tablets and PCs as it gets a key part in Windows 10.

As connected car technology climbs to the peak of its popularity, it seems to be the next logical step Cortana takes.

Samuel Shen, chief operating officer, Microsoft Asia-Pacific research and Development Group, said that Microsoft has developed a prototype of a connected car using the Cortana technology.

This prototype has a navigation system integrated in the windscreen, enabling Cortana to show maps and/or directions to the driver, including his own location.

In an his openign speech, Shen added that high costs have been a major reason that they have not launched this technology. He further added that they are currently hoping to explore future possibilities with their Taiwanese partners.

There was no mention on the current timetable to develop cars with Cortana-based technology or the names of the names of their potential partners however.

The Taipei Times recalled that Microsoft launched its "Windows in Car" concept in April 2014. In this year's TechDays event, the conference attracted greater than 3000 IT professionals from approximately a thousand firms.

While the Cortana-based technology is promising, Microsoft spokesperson said that "They have nothing to announce this time."

TagsVoice Recognition, virtual assistant, cortana technology, Microsoft Corp., Microsoft Cortana