Microsoft's new AI-powered feature, "Recall," is garnering some attention and worries from the United Kingdom's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) as it can automatically take screenshots from someone's computer, raising privacy concerns.
Microsoft claims that Recall is an "optional experience" and that security and privacy are top priorities.
Users can restrict the snapshots Recall takes, and the tech giant asserts that the data collected by Recall is saved locally and is not accessible by Microsoft or any third parties without device access.
Additionally, it stated that to view saved screenshots, a hacker would need to physically reach the user's device, unlock it, and log in.
However, an ICO spokesperson states that companies must carefully evaluate and reduce dangers to people's rights and freedoms before releasing any new products onto the market.
Recall allows you to search through all of a user's previous activity, including files, pictures, emails, and browsing history. Many gadgets are reportedly already capable of doing this, but Recall also snaps screenshots periodically and searches them.
According to Dr. Kris Shrishak, an advisor on AI and privacy, this can be a nightmare for privacy because individuals might get less comfortable with the device just by knowing that screenshots will be captured while using it.
In the meantime, Mozilla privacy team leader Jen Caltrider hinted that the changes meant your history might potentially be more easily accessed by someone who knew your password.
Microsoft's Recall
The privacy concerns come shortly after Microsoft unveiled its CoPilot+ PCs, which the new Recall feature will be exclusive to.
Microsoft Product Manager Caroline Hernandez reportedly demonstrated Windows 11's Recall feature at a recent event. She gave an example of how Recall makes it easier to search for products, such as a blue outfit, on Pinterest.
Users can instantly retrieve recent questions in the Recall timeline using voice commands without browsing their browser history. Hernandez ordered a "blue pantsuit with sequined lace for Abuelita," and Recall returned the appropriate results.
Recall can also locate documents, chat threads, and emails on PCs. Microsoft says the technique matches words like "peacock" to blue using semantic connections in a clothing search.
Recall can also locate a slide show or a team discussion marketing line. It provides details even with only contextual cues.
Microsoft also states that Recall will not filter or erase data from screenshots that include bank account or password information.
Microsoft's CoPilot+ Features
Microsoft's upcoming PCs will also reportedly come equipped with powerful Live Captions, which can translate audio and video from over 40 languages into English, among many other functions.
Thanks to this technology, which operates locally on the device without the need for the cloud, translations are faster and more accurate.
Windows Studio Effects will provide real-time artistic styles and virtual lighting enhancements for webcam video streams to further improve video chats and recordings.
(Photo: Tech Times)
