Key Points
- Microsoft pulls the Recall AI feature from the June 18 launch of Copilot Plus PCs after privacy concerns.
- Recall will now be tested through the Windows Insiders Program.
- Critics labeled Recall a privacy nightmare despite Microsoft’s security promises.
- The move follows Apple’s recent AI privacy-focused announcements.
Recall AI Tool Pulled From Launch
Microsoft has announced that its Recall AI feature, initially planned for the June 18 release of Copilot Plus PCs, will be removed following heavy criticism from users and privacy advocates. The Recall feature, intended to help users backtrack through their work, sparked significant privacy concerns, leading Microsoft to reevaluate its deployment strategy.
In a blog post dated June 13, Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President for Windows and Devices, stated that the company decided to offer Recall as part of the Windows Insiders Program instead. This program allows developers and fans to test new software before it becomes widely available. The aim is to gather more feedback and ensure the feature meets Microsoft’s high standards for quality and security.
“#Microsoft Drops Its #Recall #AI Tool From PC Launch of Copilot Plus”: https://t.co/FRc0jZSxZZ #ethics #tech #privacy #cybersec #business
— Internet Ethics (@IEthics) June 14, 2024
Privacy Concerns and Security Adjustments
Microsoft envisioned Recall as a tool to assist users in revisiting websites, documents, or apps they had previously accessed. However, privacy experts quickly raised alarms about potential misuse, where others with physical access to a computer could exploit the feature to access sensitive information. Despite Microsoft’s efforts to address these concerns—such as disabling Recall by default and adding biometric security requirements—the criticism persisted.
The decision to remove Recall from the initial release of Copilot Plus PCs is the latest in a series of challenges Microsoft has faced with its AI initiatives. Last year, the company had to limit an AI chatbot on its Bing search engine after users reported receiving unsettling messages and inaccuracies. These missteps highlight the difficulties of integrating advanced AI features while maintaining user trust and privacy.
Competing with Apple’s AI Innovations
Microsoft’s adjustment comes on the heels of Apple’s recent announcement of AI enhancements for its devices. Apple has emphasized privacy in its AI developments, promising that data accessed and analyzed by its AI will not be logged or tracked. Apple has also invited security experts to test its technology, aiming to set a new industry standard for privacy-focused AI solutions. The test version of Apple’s AI features, dubbed Apple Intelligence, is slated for release this fall.
Microsoft’s Copilot Plus PCs, which boast neural processing units (NPUs) to power advanced AI features such as photo editing and live transcription, are a key part of its AI strategy. Despite the setback with Recall, Microsoft continues to push forward with its AI integration, seeking to balance innovation with the need for robust security and privacy measures.
