Microsoft Delays Recall AI Feature for Windows Testers to October

Microsoft's Recall AI Feature Set for Testing in October

Microsoft is set to allow Windows testers to try its new Recall AI feature starting this October. Initially, the tech giant had planned to introduce this innovative functionality alongside its Copilot Plus PCs in June, but had to delay its release due to raised security concerns.

Delay Details and Security Concerns

On June 13, 2023, Microsoft had reassured users that Recall—designed to take screenshots of almost everything occurring on a user's PC—would be accessible for Windows Insiders "in the coming weeks." However, that timeline has now extended to several months. Pavan Davuluri, the head of Windows and Surface, announced the change in a recent blog post, affirming that Recall will debut for testers starting in October.

What is the Recall AI Feature?

Recall utilizes local AI models integrated into Windows 11 to capture virtually everything users see or do on their computers. This includes the ability to search and retrieve items, as well as an explorable timeline for reviewing snapshots of daily activities.

Temporary Features and Enhancements

Although Microsoft has maintained that Recall is secure and emphasizes local privacy, researchers discovered that the database linked to this feature was not encrypted. Consequently, it could have been vulnerable to malware attacks. In response, Microsoft is implementing significant modifications to Recall, such as:

• Transforming Recall into an opt-in experience instead of a default setting
• Adding encryption to the Recall database
• Implementing authentication through Windows Hello for better security measures

Looking Forward: A Timeline for Release

Despite the delays, Davuluri stresses that security remains Microsoft's top priority. Once Recall becomes available for Windows Insiders in October, further updates and details will be published in a blog post. This continued delay raises questions about whether a full launch will even occur in 2023.

Insider Program Implementation

Microsoft is known for rigorously testing its features through the Insider program before broader release, which generally lasts several weeks to months. The eventual timeline will rely heavily on when Microsoft can successfully roll out the testing version of Recall to Insiders in October.

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