Microsoft has announced a further delay for its controversial Recall feature, which was initially set for an October launch. The tech giant revealed that Recall will now be postponed until December, as it seeks to ensure a “secure and trusted experience” for users, especially as the holiday season approaches. Brandon LeBlanc, a senior product manager for Windows and one of the leaders of the Windows Insider program, noted the necessity for additional time to refine the feature. He emphasized, “We are committed to delivering a secure and trusted experience with Recall,” highlighting Microsoft’s focus on user privacy and security.
Designed as part of the AI-powered tools introduced with Copilot+ PCs, the Recall feature aims to take periodic snapshots of users’ desktops, utilizing AI to analyze and store this information in a searchable database on the user’s device. While this innovative approach has piqued interest, it has also raised significant privacy concerns. Critics have highlighted the potential risks of unencrypted data storage on users’ devices, prompting Microsoft to make critical adjustments to the feature’s framework. In September, the company outlined updates to Recall’s security and privacy architecture, including an opt-in model that allows users the freedom to uninstall the feature later if they choose.
Originally anticipated for an October debut, Recall will now begin its preview phase for Windows Insiders on Copilot+ PCs in December. This additional delay demonstrates Microsoft’s cautious approach to integrating innovative features while prioritizing user trust and privacy, particularly given the controversial nature of the feature. By taking the necessary time to address these concerns, Microsoft aims to reassure users that they can interact with Recall confidently and securely.
