Microsoft is set to bring back its virtual AI assistant, Recall, despite facing criticism over privacy concerns. The tech giant plans to reintroduce Recall as the main feature of Copilot+ PCs in October, with test builds of the Windows 11 operating system being the first to incorporate the controversial feature. However, stable Windows 11 PCs may not have access to Recall until at least 2025.
Initially announced in May, Recall captured screenshots every few seconds and used AI to analyze the content, allowing users to interact with it and inquire about previous activities on their PCs. While the feature aimed to enhance productivity, experts raised concerns about potential data theft and the limited protection against capturing sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers.
Privacy campaigners, including the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), expressed worries about the potential risks Recall posed to individuals’ rights and freedoms. Dr Kris Shrishak, an AI and privacy advisor, described the feature as a potential “privacy nightmare” due to its constant screenshot-taking capability.
In response to the concerns, Microsoft temporarily pulled Recall shortly after its announcement and later revealed plans to make it an opt-in feature by default. The company also committed to improving security measures, including enrolling in Windows Hello and other features.
While AI technology continues to be a contentious topic, with arguments ranging from job displacement to ethical concerns, Microsoft remains determined to reintroduce Recall. Google recently launched a similar feature called Pixel Screenshots, and Apple’s upcoming Apple Intelligence is expected to include onscreen awareness for Siri.
The integration of Recall in Windows 11 Insider builds is scheduled for October 2024, exclusively for Copilot+ PCs that meet the necessary requirements. Microsoft emphasizes that security is its top priority in implementing the feature.
As the program captures screenshots indiscriminately, there are concerns about potential access to sensitive information by malicious actors. The ease of accessing login credentials, emails, and other personal data in one fell swoop raises significant security concerns.