Microsoft to launch controversial 'Recall' AI search feature for testing in october

Redmond: Microsoft announced on Wednesday that it will roll out its controversial 'Recall' artificial intelligence search feature for Windows users to test starting in October. Recall, designed to help users search for information by taking screenshots of their on-screen activity, has sparked concerns among security researchers. The primary worry is the potential risks associated with Windows automatically capturing images without user consent, which could make personal information vulnerable to attackers.

In response to these concerns, Microsoft confirmed in June that the Recall feature would be disabled by default and committed to implementing additional security enhancements. However, the company has not yet provided a timeline for the broader release of Recall, which is set to be available on Windows devices meeting the system requirements for what Microsoft has dubbed "Copilot+ PCs." These PCs, capable of running AI workloads locally, were first introduced by Microsoft at an event in May, where Recall was demonstrated.

The ability to run AI models on local PCs, rather than relying on cloud-based servers from companies like OpenAI, is gaining traction among device manufacturers. Apple, for example, has released MacBooks with this capability, and Microsoft’s latest Surface Pro is also a Copilot+ PC with the ability to run local AI.

The timing of Recall's wider release could be crucial, especially with the holiday season approaching. Microsoft could see a surge in consumer interest in purchasing new computers if the Recall feature becomes widely available on compatible devices by then.

“We are committed to delivering a trustworthy and secure Recall (preview) experience on Copilot+ PCs for our customers,” Microsoft stated in a recent update to a June blog post. “As previously mentioned on June 13, we have adjusted our release strategy to benefit from the valuable feedback of our Windows Insider community before making Recall available on all Copilot+ PCs.”

Microsoft has been placing a greater emphasis on security, especially after a Department of Homeland Security report in April raised concerns about China’s breach of U.S. government officials’ Microsoft-based email accounts. The company has promised to overhaul its security processes, and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella reaffirmed this commitment to prioritizing security during a call with analysts in July.

The company also revealed that in the current fiscal year, which began on July 1, employee evaluations will now consider contributions to cybersecurity, which will influence pay decisions.