Microsoft’s Recall Feature for Windows 11 Delayed Due to Security Concerns
Microsoft’s highly anticipated Recall feature, integrated with AI technology for Windows 11 on Copilot+ PCs, will be exclusively accessible to members of the Windows Insider Program starting in October. This delay comes after initial postponement due to worries about unencrypted data storage.
Recall Feature Rollout Delays and Adjustments
The originally planned public preview launch of Recall on June 18 was scrapped as Microsoft sought additional feedback from the community. Subsequently, the intention was to introduce the feature to Windows Insider members later in June, but this timeline was not met.
In an update on August 21 by Microsoft Corporate Vice President of Windows and Devices, Pavan Davuluri, a new timeline was revealed without explanation for the previous delays. The revised strategy aims to ensure a secure and trustworthy Recall experience for Copilot+ PCs users.
Recall Feature Preview Exclusively for Windows Insider Program
Microsoft’s decision to offer Recall exclusively to Windows Insider members initially is based on leveraging the expertise of this community to uphold high standards of quality and security. This model alignment is integral to providing customers with a reliable, secure, and robust experience.
Noteworthy is Microsoft’s adherence to the Secure Future Initiative while developing Recall, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to enhancing security methods and practices. Following feedback from Windows Insider members, Recall will eventually be extended to all Copilot+ PC users.
Security Enhancements and Opt-In Nature of Recall
Concerns raised by security researchers prompted Microsoft to convert Recall from an active default feature to an opt-in one. This shift enables users to voluntarily engage with Recall on Copilot+ PCs, bolstering security measures.
To utilize Recall, users must enroll in Windows Hello for facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or PIN-based authentication, enhancing the authentication process. Additional encryption measures have been implemented to secure the search index database utilized by Recall until Windows Hello authentication.
For more information on Microsoft Copilot and related AI PC advancements, check out our detailed cheat sheet.
Microsoft’s Security Amid Congressional Scrutiny
Recent alterations to Recall’s operation occurred amidst discussions in the U.S. Congress concerning Microsoft’s broader security standing. In a dialogue with the House Homeland Security Committee, Microsoft President Brad Smith addressed concerns raised by a federal report suggesting implications of Microsoft’s security practices in a breach by state actors last year.
Recall Feature vs. Apple Intelligence
As Microsoft navigates security concerns with Recall, Apple is preparing its equivalent Apple Intelligence, developed in collaboration with OpenAI. Apple Intelligence emphasizes natural question responses by Siri, alongside robust generative AI functions such as summarization and translation. Operating both on-device and on Apple servers, Apple Intelligence showcases a proactive approach to potential security vulnerabilities.
Apple’s cautious integration of AI into its devices, exemplified by senior vice president Craig Federighi’s stance at WWDC, reflects a conscientious approach to user data privacy and security.
Fiona Jackson contributed to this article.