Microsoft's Recall and improved Windows search start rolling out to Copilot+ AI PCs today

Engadget - Apr 25th, 2025

Microsoft has begun rolling out its controversial Recall feature to Copilot+ AI PCs, following a year of delays and privacy concerns. Recall, which captures screenshots and uses AI to search for specific content, was initially criticized for automatically enabling on PCs and not securely storing its data. In response, Microsoft has implemented additional security measures, such as using VBS enclaves for data storage and requiring manual activation of the feature.

The introduction of Recall is accompanied by other AI-powered features, including improved Windows Search and Click to Do, which enhances the usability of AI tools in existing apps. While Microsoft's updates aim to enhance user experience, the initial privacy blunder has left a lasting impact on user trust. The context of this rollout highlights the ongoing competition among tech giants like Google and Apple to innovate AI capabilities, emphasizing the critical balance between innovation and user privacy in technology development.

Ai Technology Microsoft Windows 11 Privacy Concerns Recall Feature Copilot+ Ai P Cs

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of Microsoft's Recall feature, highlighting both its innovative aspects and the privacy concerns it raised. It is accurate and timely, offering relevant information that ties into current debates about AI and data privacy. The article is well-written and accessible, making complex technical details understandable to a general audience. However, it could benefit from more explicit sourcing and a broader range of perspectives to enhance its credibility and balance. Despite these minor shortcomings, the article effectively informs readers about the implications of Microsoft's latest AI developments and encourages reflection on important ethical issues.

Accuracy

The story is largely accurate and aligns well with known facts about Microsoft's Recall feature and its rollout. It correctly notes the initial announcement of the feature, the delays due to privacy concerns, and the security improvements Microsoft implemented. The claims about the Recall feature's functionality—such as capturing screenshots and using AI for search—are consistent with official descriptions. However, the article's critical tone regarding Microsoft's handling of privacy issues, while supported by the facts, could benefit from additional citations to strengthen the argument. Overall, the factual content is precise, well-supported, and verifiable.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view by highlighting both the innovative aspects of Microsoft's Recall feature and the privacy concerns it raised. It provides a critical perspective on Microsoft's initial rollout strategy and subsequent improvements, which adds depth to the discussion. However, the article leans slightly towards a critical stance without offering much perspective from Microsoft or other stakeholders who might view the feature differently. Including more viewpoints, such as user testimonials or expert opinions, could enhance the balance.

Clarity

The article is well-written and easy to follow, with a logical flow that guides readers through the development and implications of the Recall feature. The language is clear and concise, making complex technical details accessible to a general audience. However, the article could benefit from a more structured presentation of the security improvements and user feedback to enhance comprehension.

Source quality

The article does not explicitly cite its sources, which makes it difficult to assess the credibility and reliability of the information presented. While the details align with known facts from reputable sources, the lack of direct attribution weakens the source quality. Including references to official Microsoft announcements or interviews with experts would improve the article's authority and reliability.

Transparency

The article provides a clear overview of the Recall feature and its rollout but lacks transparency in terms of sourcing and methodology. It does not disclose the basis for its claims or any potential conflicts of interest. Greater transparency about how the information was gathered and the perspectives considered would enhance the article's credibility and help readers understand the context better.