After several delays and some controversy, Microsoft seems to be getting closer to releasing its much anticipated (and debated) Recall feature. In a blog post published on Thursday, the company confirmed that it has started gradually pushing out a preview of Recall to Windows Insiders. While this isn't a full public release, it's a strong indication that Recall's broader rollout is on the way.
Recall is built exclusively for Copilot Plus PCs and functions by capturing screenshots of user action, allowing them to easily revisit and retrieve previous tasks. In easy words, think of it as a visual memory for your PC, allowing you to search your digital history by scrolling through screenshots of what you have done. While potentially useful, it has also sparked several questions.
Recall was initially scheduled to be released alongside Copilot Plus PCs in June 2024, but it was delayed due to growing worries from security experts regarding user privacy and data protection. Microsoft attempted to bring it back for an October release but moved the date back to focus on establishing a secure and trusted experience.
Since November, the company has made review versions available to Windows Insiders, first for Qualcomm-powered devices, followed by support for Intel and AMD Copilot Plus PCs. Those who have tried the feature describe it as a combination of "creepy, clever, and compelling," expressing the conflict between its usefulness and the privacy problems it presents.
In its most recent blog post, Microsoft indicates user control as an essential component of Recall's design. Screenshot saving is an opt-in function, meaning users are required to enable it themselves. Additionally, users have the option to pause or cancel screenshot capture at any time, providing flexibility and greater control over personal data.
With this careful rollout strategy and increased focus on security, it seems like Microsoft is ready to move Recall out of the testing phase and into the hands of common users. Whether it will be widely embraced or raise new concerns remains to be seen.