Microsoft postpones Recall release due to privacy worries

Microsoft has made the⁢ strategic decision ‌to postpone the full ​release of‍ its controversial Recall feature ‍in response to concerns regarding data ⁢privacy and security. Initially, ‌access will be⁣ granted to a select ⁣group⁤ of Windows users.

Powered by generative AI (genAI), the Recall feature captures ⁢”snapshots” of a user’s screen every five seconds, creating⁤ a searchable log of actions spanning three ⁣months. This feature‌ is a ⁢highlight of the⁣ upcoming Copilot+ PCs, which will introduce innovative genAI capabilities to Windows.

Despite ‍the potential⁢ advantages of Recall, critics‌ have ⁢labeled it a “privacy nightmare” ⁣and compared it​ to keylogger malware.‍ The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office​ has reached out to Microsoft to ⁢inquire about the measures in ⁤place to safeguard user privacy.

Responding to the​ feedback, Microsoft⁣ has ‌introduced several privacy enhancements. ‍Recall will now be disabled⁤ by default, and users must enroll in Microsoft’s Windows Hello authentication ⁢system ⁤before using the feature.

In a recent update⁢ to a blog‍ post, Microsoft announced⁣ a delay⁤ in the full launch of Recall, which was originally scheduled to be available for ​preview on all Copilot+ devices next ‌week. Instead, it will be accessible through the Windows Insider Program in ⁣the “coming weeks,” allowing for further testing ‌of security and privacy features.

This adjustment‌ demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment⁢ to ensuring a ⁣secure and reliable experience for all customers. By engaging with the Windows Insider community, the company aims to gather additional feedback before making Recall available to all Copilot+ PC ​users.

2024-06-22 ​21:15:02
Source‍ from www.computerworld.com

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