Support Overview / Invoke FAQ

Invoke FAQ

Harman Kardon Invoke Q&A

Q: Why is Microsoft removing Cortana functionality from the Harman Kardon Invoke speaker? Does this mean you are giving up on Cortana?
A: After careful consideration, Microsoft has decided to end support for the Cortana integration in the Harman Kardon Invoke speaker in January 2021. Microsoft has worked closely with Harman Kardon to create a device transition plan that will help ease the impact this has on some of our customers.

As Microsoft shifts Cortana to a more productivity focused transformational AI-powered assistant experience in Microsoft 365, Microsoft needs to shift areas of innovation and development to provide customers the best possible experiences. Part of this shift involves rethinking Cortana’s integration within the Harman Kardon Invoke, where Microsoft noticed few users engage in the productivity tasks that Cortana is focused on. Microsoft greatly values our customers, and this was a tough decision they did not take lightly.
Microsoft is excited for what the future holds for Cortana and all the productivity assistance it will provide its customers in the future through deeper integration within Microsoft 365 tools and services, and have taken steps to minimize the inconvenience to active users.

Q: How long will Invoke users be able to use Cortana with their device after January 2021? How long will users be able to delay the update when it becomes available?
A: Although Invoke users will no longer be able to access Cortana through their device as of early 2021, customers who receive a firmware update from Harman Kardon in early 2021 will still be able to leverage the premium quality sound available with the Invoke via Bluetooth. Customers must complete the firmware update within 6 months of its release.

Q: How does the update work?
A: If your Invoke speaker is connected to Cortana via Wi-Fi, then Cortana will automatically install the update silently in the background – you will not need to take any action. After the update Is installed, your Invoke will perform like other Bluetooth speakers- you will be able to pair it with your phone or other audio source and stream music to it. But Cortana and other Wi-Fi functions will no longer be available.

Q: Is there a specified date in January for the firmware update de-coupling Cortana from the Invoke speaker?
A: Microsoft plans to roll it out in January 2021. Microsoft will update the support page once dates have solidified.

Q: What if I have more than one Invoke?
A: The redemption website (https://www.bing.com/cortanainvokeredemption) requires that Microsoft manually process the gift card codes for Microsoft accounts that are associated with more than one Invoke device. Use the Contact Us link in the footer on the website to send Microsoft an email. Make sure you're logged in with the same account you used to set up your Invoke, and that the “Correlation ID” that’s automatically generated is included in the email, as Microsoft can’t process your request without it. Also be sure to send the MAC addresses of each of your Invokes.

Q: Where can Invoke owners be directed to receive their $50 Microsoft Gift Card?
A: Customers can check their eligibility and claim a gift card at the redemption website here.

Microsoft is offering the opportunity to receive one Microsoft $50 gift card per active Invoke. This offer is for the owner of the latest U.S based Microsoft account used to set up an Invoke speaker that sent a voice request to the Cortana service after July 31, 2020 and prior to July 31, 2021. This offer does not apply to Invoke speakers that were part of a developer or employee program in which the Invoke was provided free of charge This offer is also not available outside the U.S. Promotional Gift Cards must be claimed before July 21, 2021 and spent within one year of redemption. For online purchases in the U.S. only. See full gift card terms at www.microsoft.com/cardterms.

Q: Can I receive a $50 Microsoft gift card if I purchase a Harman Kardon Invoke speaker today or following the Cortana end of service on the speaker? What if I live outside the U.S.?
A: No, gift cards are for U.S. Invoke customers who were using Cortana on their Invoke prior to July 31, 2020 (the date of announcement of end of service). See full terms above.

Q: How do I find my MAC address to see if I am eligible for the gift card?
A: The MAC address is a 12-character alphanumeric code that can be found on the bottom of the Invoke, or in the Cortana mobile app under Devices > Settings.

Q: What functionalities will the Invoke speaker have after Cortana is removed from the device?
A: Once the Invoke is updated, Cortana will no longer be accessible on the device, but customers will be able to continue listening to their favorite music, podcasts, and radio stations on their Invoke via Bluetooth.

Q: What about the tap feature? How will that work once Cortana is removed from the device? Will the blue ring remain at the top?
A: After the update, the top panel touch function will control Bluetooth audio playback. The blue ring will be removed from top-panel animations. Detailed information about how to operate your Invoke speaker with Bluetooth will be posted here when available.

Q: Will I be able to connect the Invoke to other digital assistants like Alexa?
A: No. The Invoke does not support other digital assistants.

Q: How will I update or configure my device if the Cortana mobile app is retiring?
A: You can still use the Cortana mobile app to configure your device through early next year. After the Cortana mobile app retires, you will still be able to configure and update your Invoke through the Cortana Device Setup app on Windows 10.

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