Microsoft has announced that it will be allowing Windows testers to try out its controversial Recall AI feature in October. Originally planned to launch with Copilot Plus PCs in June, the feature was delayed due to security concerns. Microsoft has since made changes to the feature to address these concerns, and it will now be available to Windows Insiders starting in October.
The Recall AI feature uses local AI models built into Windows 11 to screenshot nearly everything that is done on the computer. Users will have the ability to search for and retrieve items they have seen, as well as scroll through an explorable timeline to look back at their work on a particular day. While Microsoft has emphasized that Recall is secure, local, and private on-device, security researchers found that the database was not encrypted, leaving it vulnerable to potential malware attacks.
One of the major issues with the original Recall AI feature was the lack of encryption in the database, which could have exposed users to security risks. Malware could potentially access the Recall feature, compromising the privacy and security of users’ data. In response to these concerns, Microsoft has made significant changes to Recall, including making the feature opt-in instead of on by default, encrypting the database, and implementing authentication through Windows Hello.
It is unclear why Recall has been pushed back further, but Microsoft has stated that security remains a top priority. When Recall is available for Windows Insiders in October, Microsoft plans to publish a detailed blog post outlining the security changes that have been made. This additional delay suggests that Microsoft needs more time to fully test the security updates to Recall, which could mean that a full launch of the feature this year is unlikely.
Microsoft typically tests new Windows features with its Insider program for extended periods before releasing them to the general public. The exact timing of the Recall feature’s launch will depend on when Microsoft is able to ship the test version in October. By conducting thorough testing with Windows Insiders, Microsoft aims to ensure that Recall is secure and reliable before rolling it out more broadly.
Microsoft’s decision to allow Windows testers to try out the Recall AI feature in October is a significant step forward. By addressing the security concerns that led to the feature’s initial delay, Microsoft is demonstrating its commitment to delivering a secure and trustworthy experience for users. While the additional delay may be disappointing for some, it is essential for ensuring that Recall is safe and reliable for all Windows users.
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