Microsoft announced that it would delay the launch of Recall, an AI tool that tracks user activity, amid concerns about privacy and security.
The company also decided to limit its rollout from "broadly available" to a preview feature on Windows Insiders Program (WIP).
Microsoft Addresses Security Concerns on Recall Feature
In a blog post, Microsoft revealed that it adjusted the release model for Recall in solution to the recent concerns about privacy and security. The feature will not be included in the release of Copilot+ PCs on June 18.
Recall will only be available as a preview feature in the WIP. The company detailed that it will start collecting feedback from the Insider Community first before planning to expand its release to all Copilot+ PCs in the future.
"This decision is rooted in our commitment to providing a trusted, secure, and robust experience for all customers and to seek additional feedback prior to making the feature available to all Copilot+ PC users," said Pavan Davuluri, corporate vice president of Windows+ Devices.
Microsoft to Test Recall Feature Before Public Release
Last month, Microsoft introduced its Copilot+ PCs which came with all-new AI-powered tools to help users optimize their workload and tasks effectively. The Recall feature is part of the new AI tools which was designed to take screenshots of the user's screen.
The images will be stored, encrypted, and analyzed by the system to allow users to retrace their previous activities. Although Microsoft clarified that users will take full control of what is saved, several critics have shown concern for privacy and security.
Microsoft will update the set-up experience for Copilot+ PCs, making it easier for users to opt in or opt out of the feature. The feature will also be disabled by default. The company also assured that additional data protective layers will be added to prevent any unauthorized access to the snapshots.
