Fixing Cortana No Sound Issues in Windows 10

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To resolve the issue of no sound from Cortana in Windows 10, there are several methods you can try:

1. Update Audio Drivers

Outdated or incorrect audio drivers are a common cause for sound issues with Cortana. Updating your drivers can resolve these problems.

1. Access Device Manager:
   • Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
2. Update Audio Driver:
   • In Device Manager, expand the ‘Audio inputs and outputs’ section.
   • Right-click your audio device and select ‘Update driver’.
   • Select ‘Search automatically for updated driver software’ and follow the on-screen instructions.

Note: If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, you may need to visit the device manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers​​.

2. Disable Digital Output

Multiple playback devices can interfere with Cortana’s sound. Disabling unused digital outputs might resolve the issue.

1. Access Sound Settings:
   • Right-click the sound icon on your taskbar and select ‘Playback devices’.
2. Disable Unused Digital Output:
   • Find and right-click the digital output device you are not using and select ‘Disable’.

Restart your PC to ensure the changes take effect​​.

3. Troubleshoot Sound Problems

Windows provides a built-in troubleshooter to diagnose and resolve sound issues.

1. Run the Sound Troubleshooter:
   • Right-click the sound icon on the taskbar and select ‘Troubleshoot sound problems’.
   • Choose the audio device you want to troubleshoot and follow the instructions provided by the troubleshooter.

This process will automatically detect and attempt to fix issues with audio playback on your computer​​.

4. Reset Cortana

Resetting Cortana can help in restoring its default settings and resolving sound issues.

1. Open Cortana Settings:
   • Click the Cortana icon on the taskbar to open Cortana.
   • Click the wheel-like Settings icon to open Cortana settings.
2. Reset Cortana:
   • Turn off options like ‘Let Cortana respond to “Hey Cortana”‘ and other Cortana settings.
   • Restart your computer to apply these changes.
   • After restarting, turn on the Cortana settings again.

Note: This will clear what Cortana knows on this device but won’t delete anything from the Notebook​​.

5. Check Recording Device Settings

Ensuring that your microphone is correctly set up and selected as the input device is crucial for Cortana’s sound functionality.

1. Access Sound Settings:
   • Right-click the sound icon on the taskbar and select ‘Open Sound settings’.
2. Configure Microphone Settings:
   • In the ‘Input’ section, check and ensure that the correct microphone is selected.
   • Try changing to another microphone to see if the issue is resolved.

If Cortana still has no sound, ensure your microphone is functional with other applications.

6. Keep Your OS Up-to-date

Having the latest updates installed on your Windows 10 system can resolve known issues and improve overall system performance.

1. Check for Updates:
   • Go to Start, then select Settings.
   • Navigate to Update & Security.
   • Click the ‘Check for updates’ button to automatically download and install the latest Windows updates on your computer.

Ensure your system is always up-to-date to avoid potential issues with Cortana and other system components​​.

7. Reinstall Cortana with PowerShell

Reinstalling Cortana via PowerShell can be a solution if other methods fail. This process involves using specific commands to uninstall and then reinstall Cortana.

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator:
   • Search for ‘PowerShell’ in the Start menu.
   • Right-click on it and select ‘Run as Administrator’.
2. Reinstall Cortana:
   • Use specific PowerShell commands to uninstall and then reinstall Cortana.
   • Commands vary, so refer to a reliable source for the exact command line instructions.

Note: Be careful with PowerShell commands, as incorrect usage can affect system settings and applications​.

8. Adjust System Settings

Ensuring that features like Quiet Hours are disabled and location tracking is enabled is important, as these settings can affect Cortana’s functionality.

1. Disable Quiet Hours:
   • Press Windows Key + A to open the Action Center.
   • Locate and disable the ‘Quiet hours’ option.
2. Enable Location Tracking:
   • Open the Settings app and click on ‘Privacy’.
   • In the ‘Location’ tab, ensure the location for your device is enabled.

These adjustments help in ensuring that Cortana functions properly with sound output and voice recognition​​.

 

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