Microsoft Introduces AI-Powered 'Recall' Feature for Copilot+ PCs
Microsoft has unveiled a new AI-powered 'Recall' feature for Copilot+ PCs running Windows 11, exclusively available on devices with Snapdragon X processors and an NPU capable of 40 TOPS. This feature will comprehensively record and save user activity, including app usage, conversations, and browsing history, allowing users to easily search for past activity. The Recall feature is set to be included in the Windows 11 24H2 update, anticipated to roll out in September or October.
Key Takeaways
- Microsoft introduces the AI-powered Recall feature for Copilot+ PCs with Windows 11 and Snapdragon X processors, enabling comprehensive user activity tracking.
- Users can delete, adjust time ranges, exclude specific apps and websites, and pause Recall, providing control over their recorded activity.
- The Recall feature will facilitate the recovery of lost files, searching browser history, and supporting natural language queries.
- The update carrying the Recall feature is expected to be available for PCs meeting the specified hardware requirements in September or October.
Analysis
The introduction of the Recall feature on Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs could have considerable implications for user privacy and data security. The ability to track user activity so comprehensively, enabled by advancements in AI and NPU technologies, may prompt increased scrutiny from privacy advocates and users. This could ultimately shape user expectations and regulatory requirements regarding data handling, potentially affecting organizations such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation and data protection authorities, along with financial instruments like cybersecurity and privacy-focused ETFs.
Did You Know?
- AI-powered 'Recall' feature: Microsoft's new feature uses AI to record and save user activity on Copilot+ PCs, enabling easy searches for past activity, including app usage, conversations, and browsing history.
- Snapdragon X processors and NPU capable of 40 TOPS: These are key hardware requirements for the Recall feature, indicating high-performance computing capability.
- Windows 11 24H2 update: This impending update will introduce the Recall feature for Copilot+ PCs, set for release in September or October.