After backlash, here’s what Microsoft did to fix the controversial ‘Recall’ AI feature

Not so long ago, with the introduction of its Copilot+ PCs, Microsoft also unveiled an AI Recall feature. For those unaware, the Recall feature took screenshots of your browsing history and stored it, in case you “ever” wish to revisit it. But as soon as it was announced, it faced so much backlash for hampering privacy and security that Microsoft had to step in. Now, to deal with the same, Microsoft has introduced a couple of new features that take care of the security concerns.

Owing to its recall feature, Microsoft had received a lot of backlash, from netizens and experts alike. Now, we have three new security features that are an attempt by Microsoft to build trust in the AI-powered tool designed to track user history visually.

Also read: Microsoft’s AI-powered Recall feature could be a security disaster: Here’s why

3 new changes in Microsoft Recall

Microsoft shared the new features via a blog post which read, “We have heard a clear signal that we can make it easier for people to choose to enable Recall on their Copilot+ PC and improve privacy and security safeguards. With that in mind, we are announcing updates that will go into effect before Recall (preview) ships to customers on June 18.”

1. First up, the Recall feature will be completely optional. Users can disable this feature during the setup process. Even by default, this feature will be turned off. If you wish to use it then you will have to enable it yourself.
2. The next change will integrate Windows Hello with Recall. This is a security feature that requires biometric information or a PIN code for device access. If you wish to use Recall, then you will have to first set this up. Even if you wish to access and search through the Recall timeline, you will have to give “proof of presence”.
3. Finally, Recall will also be encrypted so that hackers can not easily access the data. Windows Hello and the encryption of the search index database of Recall’s snapshots will help make the feature more secure.