June 7, 2024 Microsoft is facing a backlash over Windows Recall, the new AI feature designed to remember everything users do on their PCs. This feature, part of the Copilot+ PC initiative, aims to index user activities for easy search. However, it has sparked significant privacy and security concerns.

On paper, Windows Recall is innovative. CEO Satya Nadella described it as a photographic memory for your computer, using AI to let you search for activities using natural language. The data is stored locally, and Microsoft claims it can’t see or use this data for AI training or advertising.

However, at least with what we can see in the industry press, users don’t trust Microsoft. Years of intrusive practices have eroded user confidence. People are calling Windows Recall “spyware” and threatening to switch to other platforms.

Microsoft’s history of bad practices has fueled these suspicions. Users are wary of forced updates, intrusive ads, and the prioritization of revenue over user experience. This distrust is now magnified with Windows Recall, which takes screenshots every few seconds and stores them locally. Despite assurances, many believe this data will eventually be used for advertising or AI training.

Moreover, security concerns are rampant. Reports indicate that Windows Recall data is stored unencrypted, making it vulnerable to third-party access and malware. This is a significant issue for an open platform like Windows, where apps and users can access the entire OS.

Microsoft’s secrecy during Windows Recall’s development hasn’t helped. The feature wasn’t tested openly, preventing early identification of these security flaws. This lack of transparency has only deepened user mistrust.

For those who don’t want Windows Recall, there’s some relief: it’s only available on new Copilot+ PCs, which require specific hardware. Existing Windows 11 PCs won’t support it. However, for new PC buyers, the feature might be enabled by default, though Microsoft is reconsidering this.

Despite the backlash, Windows Recall is effective and it meets a real need. It allows users to find and restore previously viewed or deleted content easily. However, without trust, it risks having it’s implementation scuttled by security fears, fueled by many of key influencers.

Microsoft needs to address these concerns before Windows Recall’s launch on June 18. Ensuring the data is encrypted and providing clear, transparent communication about its use is crucial. Otherwise, the feature may face continued resistance.

In summary, Windows Recall’s potential is undermined by Microsoft’s eroded trust and security concerns. The company must act swiftly to reassure users and secure their data, or risk further damaging its reputation.