Microsoft has introduced a new " Recall " feature for its Copilot+ PCs. This feature aims to enhance user productivity by providing an advanced method to track and retrieve past PC activities. This report delves into the functionalities, system requirements, privacy concerns, and current status of the Recall feature.
Key Features of Recall
Explorable Timeline
Recall provides users with an explorable timeline of their PC's past activities. This timeline is created by taking snapshots of the screen every five seconds when the content changes. These snapshots are then organized in a chronological order, allowing users to review their activity in a preview window and easily navigate to specific points in time.
Natural Language Search
One of Recall's standout features is its ability to search for content using natural language. This means you can search for things like 'documents I worked on last week' or 'pictures from my vacation' instead of using specific keywords. This includes both images and text, making it easier for users to find specific information from their past activities.
Local Processing and Storage
With Recall, all data is processed and handled locally on the Copilot+ PC, giving users full control and ensuring their snapshots are stored securely on the device. This means that your data is not shared with Microsoft or other users on the same device, providing you with peace of mind.
Privacy and Security
Microsoft has implemented several privacy and security measures for Recall. These include:
- Encryption of snapshots using Device Encryption or BitLocker.
- The ability to manage and configure snapshot preferences, including turning off snapshot saving and filtering out specific apps and websites, such as social media platforms or online banking sites.
- Additional layers of data protection, such as SmartScreen, a feature that helps protect against phishing and malware, and Defender, Microsoft's built-in antivirus program, are enabled by default.
System Requirements
To use Recall, a PC must meet the following minimum system requirements:
- - A Copilot+ PC
- 16 GB RAM
- 8 logical processors
- 256 GB storage capacity.
Accessibility and Usability
Recall can be accessed using the keyboard shortcut Windows logo key + J or by selecting the Recall icon on the taskbar. Users can also configure how much disk space Recall is allowed to use for storing snapshots.
Current Status and Future Availability
Delayed Launch
Recall was initially expected to be broadly available for Copilot+ PCs on June 18, 2024. However, due to privacy and security concerns raised by experts and regulators, Microsoft has postponed the full launch. Recall will now be available first to participants in the Windows Insider Program (WIP), a community of Microsoft enthusiasts who get early access to Windows features for further testing and feedback.
Opt-in Feature
In response to the concerns, Microsoft has made Recall an opt-in feature. This means that users must actively choose to enable Recall and access the timeline and search functionalities, ensuring that users have full control over their privacy and data.
Security Enhancements
Rest assured, Microsoft is committed to improving Recall's privacy and security safeguards. This includes requiring proof of presence to access the timeline and search and ensuring all data is processed and stored locally, further enhancing your confidence in the feature.
Conclusion
Recall is a promising feature that leverages AI to enhance the user experience on Copilot+ PCs by providing an advanced method to track and retrieve past activities. Despite its potential, the feature has faced significant scrutiny over privacy and security concerns, leading to a delayed launch. Microsoft is addressing these issues and ensuring a secure and robust experience for all users.
References
- Retrace your steps with Recall - Microsoft Support.
- Privacy and control over your Recall experience - Microsoft Support.
- Microsoft's AI Recall Feature May Not Even Hit Your PC, but Here's How to Disable It - CNET.
- Microsoft dumps Windows 11 Recall feature from Copilot+ PCs at launch – TechRadar.
- Recall Overview | Microsoft Learn.
- Microsoft Makes Security, Privacy Changes To Recall Feature For Copilot+ PCs.
- Microsoft's Controversial Recall Feature Could See September Launch | PCMag.
- Microsoft Recall delayed after privacy and security concerns | Malwarebytes.
- Microsoft's all-knowing Recall AI feature is being delayed - The Verge