Microsoft Delays Launch of Controversial AI Feature ‘Recall’ That Tracked User Activity

Microsoft has decided to postpone the release of “Recall,” a controversial AI feature designed to record user activities on their computers.

Initially announced alongside the new “Copilot Plus PCs,” Microsoft touted Recall as a tool to help computers understand user behavior, thus enhancing AI capabilities by recalling any activity performed on the device. This feature was described as giving computers a “photographic memory,” marking a step toward AI that could “instantly see us, hear, and reason about our intent and surroundings.”

However, the announcement sparked significant backlash over privacy and security concerns. Critics argued that the recorded data could be extremely invasive and pose serious risks if accessed by unauthorized individuals.

In response to the outcry, Microsoft initially planned to make Recall an opt-in feature and added new security measures. Now, the company has further decided to delay its release. When it does become available, it will be as a “preview” for participants in the Microsoft Insider Program, who test new features before a wider release.

“We are adjusting the release model for Recall to leverage the expertise of the Windows Insider community to ensure the experience meets our high standards for quality and security,” Microsoft stated. “This decision is rooted in our commitment to providing a trusted, secure, and robust experience for all customers and to seek additional feedback prior to making the feature available to all Copilot+ PC users.”

The preview is expected to launch “in the coming weeks.” Microsoft has not provided a timeline for when Recall will be widely available for all its new AI-focused PCs.