After months of debate and controversy, Microsoft has officially released the test version of Recall for Windows 11. This photographic memory feature, powered by AI through Microsoft’s Copilot technology, is now available to Windows Insiders with compatible devices.
Recall arrives after delays and privacy reviews
According to a recent post on the Windows Insider blogthe trial version of Recall is ready to be installed on Windows 11. This version brings some of the highly anticipated features, initially introduced in May 2024. These include the ability to retrieve images, documents or applications by simply describing them. However, Microsoft labeled the release as a "Preview", alerting users that occasional failures may occur.
The road to launching Recall was not without its challenges. Initially revealed alongside Copilot+ PCs, Recall was seen as a revolutionary solution to long-standing frustrations with file and memory management in Windows.
But enthusiasm quickly gave way to criticism when serious security problems arose. Early versions of the feature stored snapshots in an unprotected format.
After significant backlash, Microsoft delayed the release of Recall to address these flaws and improve security measures. This period of extended development appears to have brought functionality with more stringent privacy protocols.
De: Windows Central
What can Recall do?
The trial version of Recall introduces a series of features designed to increase productivity and simplify your digital life. For example, it allows users to "rewind" their activity, accessing previously viewed files or applications.
Whether you need to find a document discussed during a meeting or revisit a web page you visited, Recall's AI allows you to locate it through the content description. Accessing Recall is as simple as clicking its icon on the taskbar and typing your prompt.
Another notable feature is "Click to Do", which identifies and extracts text and images. With this tool, users can easily copy and share content or open it in another application directly from the Recall interface.
Privacy has been a central focus
Microsoft emphasized that users maintain full control over their data. Snapshots are stored locally on the device and are never transferred to the cloud or shared with external entities. Furthermore, Recall is designed to prevent the storage of sensitive informationsuch as passwords, bank details or credit card numbers.
To further reinforce security, Recall features "Windows Hello" authentication. The feature is only activated after verifying the user's identity through facial recognition, a fingerprint scan or a PIN.
Users also have the ability to pause Recall, delete specific photos, or customize privacy settings according to your preferences.
If you have a PC with Copilot+, you can now explore o Recall by signing up for the Windows Insider program. The functionality is included in Windows 11 Developer Channel build 26120.2415 (KB5046723). Early adopters are encouraged to carefully review the privacy documentation and configuring settings before diving.
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Source: pplware.sapo.pt
