April 14, 2025 – Global Tech News
Microsoft has resumed the rollout of its controversial AI-powered screenshot feature, dubbed Copilot+ Recall, for select users running its AI-enabled Windows PCs and laptops. While the tool promises powerful productivity benefits, it’s once again being labeled a “privacy nightmare” by experts and watchdogs.
Originally paused in 2024 after heavy backlash, Microsoft has now relaunched the Recall feature in preview mode for users enrolled in the Windows Insider Program. The global rollout is underway, although residents in the European Union will have to wait until late 2025 due to regional data compliance regulations.
What Is Copilot+ Recall?
Recall takes automatic snapshots of your screen every few seconds, allowing users to search and retrieve past activity, including files, web pages, chats, images, and emails. Microsoft claims it enhances user convenience by offering AI-assisted memory recall—for example, helping someone find an outfit they saw online days ago.
Users must opt in to enable the feature, and Microsoft has added controls such as pausing, app exclusions, and screenshot deletion options. All data, according to the company, is stored locally and is not shared with Microsoft or third parties.
Privacy Advocates Still Raise Red Flags
Despite Microsoft’s adjustments, privacy experts remain wary. Dr. Kris Shrishak, a data privacy campaigner, warned that Recall may still record sensitive information from apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or email clients, even if others haven’t consented to their data being captured.
“Think of disappearing messages on Signal that are saved by Recall forever,” Shrishak said.
“Even with opt-in controls, information from others—who never agreed—can be logged.”
He also warned that if hackers gain access to a device, Recall’s screenshots could be exploited as a goldmine of personal data.
Microsoft Defends Data Practices and Local Storage
In response to the renewed backlash, Microsoft clarified that Recall is secure by design:
- Snapshots are not uploaded to the cloud.
- Users must verify identity to access Recall data.
- Private browsing modes in some browsers will not be captured.
- Users can delete any or all Recall screenshots.
The company also highlighted that users can limit which applications Recall interacts with.
Regulatory Oversight and Data Compliance
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) said it is still engaging with Microsoft over Recall, emphasizing that companies must ensure user transparency and compliance with data protection laws.
“Organisations are responsible for how they use personal data and must demonstrate ongoing compliance,” the ICO stated.
“We will intervene where data protection rights are at risk.”
Conclusion: Innovation vs Privacy in the AI Age
While Copilot+ Recall could redefine how users interact with their digital history, its privacy implications remain a major hurdle. With security experts, privacy advocates, and data regulators watching closely, Microsoft’s AI experiment is walking a fine line between innovation and intrusion.
As AI in operating systems becomes the new standard, the balance between convenience and control will shape how features like Recall evolve—and how they’re received by the public.
Disclaimer: Includes third-party opinions. No financial advice.
