Microsoft 'recalls' screenshot feature after outcry

Microsoft is making changes to a controversial feature announced for its new range of PCs powered by artificial intelligence after it was flagged as a potential "privacy nightmare".

The company billed the "Recall" feature for Copilot+ as a way to make users' lives easier by capturing and storing screenshots of their desktop activity.

But after people claimed hackers might be able to misuse the tool and its saved screenshots, Microsoft is making the feature opt-in instead.

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), the UK's data watchdog, had told the BBC it was "making enquiries" with Microsoft about the tool after concerns were raised.

"We have heard a clear signal that we can make it easier for people to choose to enable Recall on their Copilot+ PC and improve privacy and security safeguards," said Pavan Davuluri, corporate vice president of Windows and devices, on Friday.

The "Recall" tool featured prominently during the unveiling of Microsoft's new PCs at its developer conference in May. The company is counting on artificial intelligence (AI) to drive demand for its devices.

Leave a Comment