Microsoft has officially begun the rollout of its innovative AI-powered tool, known as Copilot+ Recall, which captures snapshots of users' screens every few seconds. Currently available in preview mode, this feature is accessible to select users with Microsoft's AI-enabled PCs and laptops. The relaunch of this tool comes after its initial announcement last year, which was met with significant privacy concerns. As a result, Microsoft paused the rollout in 2024 to refine the technology through trials with a limited user base.
Following successful trials, Microsoft has commenced the expansion of Copilot+ Recall to participants of its Windows Insider software testing program. The company has indicated that the feature will be made available globally; however, users located in the EU will have to wait until late 2025 for access. Interested users will need to opt into the feature, and Microsoft assures that they can pause the saving of snapshots at any time.
The primary purpose of Recall is to streamline the way PC users search through their past activities, including files, photos, emails, and browsing history. For instance, if a user spotted a dress online a few days ago, Recall enables them to quickly find the exact source of that image. This capability aims to enhance user experience by making it easier to retrieve important information with minimal effort.
Dr. Shrishak further highlights the risks associated with disappearing messaging apps, such as Signal, which could potentially store these ephemeral messages permanently through Recall. He warns that malicious actors could exploit saved images if they gain unauthorized access to a user's device.
In response to these concerns, Microsoft has emphasized that Recall does not share snapshots or any associated data with the company or third parties. Furthermore, information is not exchanged between different users. To ensure security, users must confirm their identity before accessing the snapshots. Microsoft has also confirmed that images captured by Recall are stored locally on the user's computer, granting users control over their data.
Additionally, users can select which applications are utilized by Recall, and the tool will not capture information in private mode on certain browsers. Microsoft has implemented features that allow users to delete any unwanted screenshots that have been captured.
The rollout of Copilot+ Recall has not gone unnoticed by regulatory bodies. The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) was inquiring into the feature when it was originally announced in May 2024. Following the implementation of several modifications to the product, the ICO stated that they would continue to monitor Recall as Microsoft approaches its official launch.
As Microsoft moves forward with the expansion of Copilot+ Recall, the company remains committed to addressing privacy concerns while enhancing user experience with this advanced AI tool.
