Microsoft announced on Wednesday that it would be releasing its Recall artificial intelligence search feature for Windows users to test starting in October. The feature, which takes screenshots of on-screen activity to allow users to search for previously seen information, raised concerns among security researchers due to the potential risks of automatically capturing images without user consent. In response to these concerns, Microsoft stated that Recall would be turned off by default and committed to implementing security enhancements for the feature.
The company did not specify a timeline for a broader release of Recall for Windows computers that meet the system requirements for the feature, known as Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft introduced this new class of Windows PCs, capable of running artificial intelligence workloads, at an event in May. Device makers are striving to demonstrate the capability of running AI models on local PCs rather than relying on cloud-based servers from companies like OpenAI.
The timing of Recall's wide release could be crucial, as consumers may be more inclined to purchase new computers during the holiday season if Microsoft makes Recall available on all supporting devices by then. Microsoft emphasized its commitment to delivering a secure and trustworthy Recall experience on Copilot+ PCs, with the feature set to be available to Windows Insiders in October.
Security has become a top priority for Microsoft, with the company evaluating cybersecurity contributions in employee reviews that will impact pay. This heightened focus on security follows concerns raised by a Department of Homeland Security report regarding China's breach of U.S. government officials' Microsoft-based email accounts. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella reiterated the company's commitment to prioritizing security above all else during a recent conference call with analysts.