Windows 11 users will not have the option to uninstall Microsoft’s contentious “Recall” feature, despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise.
Recall, introduced in May, is a Copilot+ feature that continuously captures screenshots of user activity in order to help access previous work more efficiently.
While a recent update was thought to enable the removal of the feature, Microsoft has clarified that this uninstall option was merely a bug. In a statement, a Microsoft representative confirmed, “We are aware of an issue where Recall is incorrectly listed as an option under the ‘Turn Windows features on or off’ dialog in Control Panel. This will be addressed in an upcoming update.”
When first announced, Recall was designed to be an integrated part of Windows 11, using on-device AI to sift through saved screenshots to help users locate specific information. However, critics have raised alarms about cybersecurity vulnerabilities, pointing out that it could inadvertently store sensitive data such as passwords and personal information.
A former Microsoft security expert warned that this feature poses significant security risks, labeling it a “disaster.” Concerns highlighted the ease with which sensitive data could potentially be accessed.
Microsoft’s AI ‘Recall’ feature: A new dimension of data access.
In response to the public outcry related to privacy issues, Microsoft announced that the Recall feature would be opt-in, disabling it by default. The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is currently investigating potential privacy violations stemming from this feature.
Initially expected to launch in June, Recall faced delays as Microsoft worked to address these security concerns. The feature is now slated for rollout to Windows Insiders in October.
Topics
Artificial Intelligence
Microsoft
