The highly anticipated AI Recall feature from Microsoft, which takes screenshots of users’ laptops every few seconds, will not be released next week as originally planned. The decision comes amidst security concerns raised by cyber security experts, with one describing the feature as a “grab and go” target for criminals.
The Information Commissioners’ Office (ICO) is currently investigating the feature, prompting Microsoft to delay its release. In a blog post, Microsoft stated that Recall will not be widely available on Copilot+ PCs starting from June 18, but will instead be released to its testing group Windows Insider Programme in the coming weeks.
Pavan Davuluri, a vice president at Microsoft, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing a trusted and secure experience for all customers and seeking additional feedback before releasing the feature.
Recall is designed to help users easily find and remember things they’ve seen using natural language, utilizing artificial intelligence and “photographic memory”. However, concerns have been raised about the potential for hackers to exploit the feature by accessing sensitive information through the screenshots.
In response to these concerns, Microsoft has implemented additional security precautions, including a “just in time” decryption tool that requires user authentication to access Recall snapshots. The ICO confirmed that their investigation into the feature is ongoing.
The delay in releasing Recall comes on the heels of Microsoft president Brad Smith being questioned in the US Congress about security failures that allowed Russia and China to hack its systems. Smith announced that executive bonuses at Microsoft will now be tied to cyber security, and security will be incorporated into every employee’s performance review.