Microsoft Delays Recall Feature After Intense Privacy Backlash
Microsoft scales back the launch of its AI-powered Recall feature, restricting it to Windows Insider testers following severe security and privacy criticisms. The tool now requires extra authentication and switches off by default.
Microsoft delays the widespread release of its highly criticized Recall feature, shifting the preview exclusively to the Windows Insider Program. The artificial intelligence tool captures snapshots of a user's screen every five seconds to create a searchable history of PC activity over the past three months. Originally, the company plans to bundle this feature with the new Copilot+ PCs that launch next week.
Privacy advocates and security experts loudly condemn the feature, comparing it to keylogger malware and labeling it a massive privacy nightmare. In response to this intense backlash and an inquiry from the UK's Information Commissioner's Office, Microsoft makes several significant concessions. The company confirms that Recall requires Windows Hello authentication to activate and remains switched off by default for all users.
By limiting the initial rollout to Windows Insiders, Microsoft aims to gather additional feedback and thoroughly test its updated security safeguards. A company executive states that this adjustment reflects a strong commitment to delivering a trusted and robust experience for all customers. The tech giant promises to share specific details soon about how Insiders can access the preview in the coming weeks.