Microsoft has made its Recall feature available again for users of Copilot+ PCs almost a year after its initial announcement. This recall feature aims to enhance the efficiency and usability of AI-powered Windows installations, particularly for those utilizing Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors. With concerns regarding privacy and security raised previously, Microsoft has asserted that Recall now incorporates safety measures to protect user data.

In a post on Microsoft’s Windows blog, Navjot Virk highlighted the success of the Copilot+ ecosystem: “Copilot+ PCs have blazed a trail in personal computing, redefining what it means to be a premium PC with unparalleled features, performance and security out of the box.” He noted that 15% of premium-priced laptops in the U.S. were Copilot+ PCs during the last holiday season.

What is Recall?

Recall takes regular snapshots of your desktop, enabling users to retrieve lost documents or information easily. The feature has generated notable interest due to the privacy concerns it initially faced, but Microsoft has emphasized its commitment to securely handling user data.

Using advanced encryption and local data processing, Recall does not transmit data to the cloud, thus enhancing user privacy. Additionally, users have the option to opt-in or completely remove this feature if desired.

While Microsoft continues to roll out enhancements, users without compatible hardware, specifically those lacking an NPU rated to 40 TOPS, will not benefit from these features. The market remains split as Copilot+ features do not extend to typical gaming laptops that do not meet these specifications.