Microsoft Delays AI Recall Feature Release on New Windows PCs Amid Privacy and Security Concerns

Microsoft delays the release of its AI Recall feature on new Windows computers. The Recall feature, which provides an AI assistant with a "photographic memory" of a person's virtual activity, has raised concerns about privacy and cybersecurity. The feature will first be made available to a smaller group of users in the Windows Insider software testing program.

Microsoft surface pro — Credit: AP Photo

In an unexpected move, Microsoft has announced a delay in the rollout of its highly anticipated AI Recall function for new Windows computers. The decision comes after concerns about the feature's privacy and cybersecurity.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced the Recall function at a showcase event last month, touting it as a big step towards artificial intelligence robots that can understand and anticipate human intent. It operates by taking periodic screenshots of a computer screen, giving Microsoft's AI helper Copilot a "photographic memory" of a user's virtual activity.

"We're entering this new era where computers not only understand us but can actually anticipate what we want and our intent," Nadella said in May, emphasising the Recall feature's capabilities.

However, Microsoft has now announced that the widely anticipated preview of Recall, which was supposed to be included with new PCs starting Tuesday, will be delayed. Instead, it will first be made available to a smaller group of users who are part of the Windows Insider software testing program. This decision is intended to ensure that the experience meets Microsoft's high standards of quality and security.

Microsoft's corporate vice president of Windows and devices, Pavan Davaluri, remarked, "Ensure the experience meets our high standards for quality and security."

The delay in Recall's release comes as Microsoft faces greater competition from rival tech heavyweights in the realm of generative AI technologies. Last month, at its annual Build event, Microsoft introduced a new class of AI-powered personal computers running the Windows 11 operating system. These high-end PCs, built by Microsoft partners such as Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung, will include the new AI capabilities.

Microsoft delays the release of its AI Recall feature on new Windows computers.
The Recall feature, which provides an AI assistant with a "photographic memory" of a person's virtual activity, has raised concerns about privacy and cybersecurity.
The feature will first be made available to a smaller group of users in the Windows Insider software testing program.

Source: AP NEWS