Microsoft Introduces Three New AI Features to Copilot+ PCs, Including the Debated Recall Function
Microsoft Introduces New AI Features for Copilot+ PCs
In a significant development for its Windows operating system, Microsoft has unveiled three advanced features intended to enhance the functionality of Copilot+ PCs. These features include Recall, an improved Windows search, and Click to Do. Initially made available as previews for Windows Insiders earlier this year, these tools are now rolling out to the general public as part of the April 2025 Windows non-security preview update.
Overview of New Features
1. Recall
What is Recall?
Recall is designed to function as a "photographic memory" for your computer, generating a series of snapshots of your activities and files in Windows. This sophisticated AI-powered tool can assist users in retrieving various items such as files, settings, and activities much more easily.
Privacy Concerns
The introduction of Recall has not been without controversy. Initial feedback highlighted privacy concerns, with some users describing it as a “privacy nightmare.” In response to these worries, Microsoft has implemented several safeguards:
- Recall will be disabled by default, and users must opt in to use it.
- Accessing Recall requires Windows Hello authentication, ensuring an additional layer of security.
- Data collected through Recall remains encrypted and processed locally on the device, meaning it is not sent to the cloud or shared with external parties.
Requirements
To make use of Recall, your PC must meet certain specifications:
- Must be a Copilot+ PC that adheres to the Secured-core standard.
- Equipped with a neural processing unit capable of at least 40 TOPs (Trillions of Operations Per Second).
- Requires a minimum of 16 GB of RAM, 256 GB of storage (with at least 50 GB free), and device encryption enabled.
2. Improved Windows Search
Enhanced Searching Capabilities
The new AI-enabled Windows search allows users to find files and content using natural language. Gone are the days of needing to recall file names or types—now, you can simply describe what you’re looking for.
Efficiency
Microsoft claims that using this improved search function can reduce the time spent locating and processing files by up to 70% compared to traditional search methods found in Windows 10. This capability is integrated into various parts of the operating system, including File Explorer, the Windows search box, and the Settings menu.
3. Click to Do
Functionality of Click to Do
This feature allows users to interact with text or images on their screen more fluidly. By selecting an area, a context menu appears that provides various action options, similar to right-clicking. Depending on what is selected, users can accomplish different tasks such as:
- Copying text or images to the clipboard.
- Opening emails or searching the web directly from the selected text.
- Summarizing or rewriting selected text.
Privacy Considerations
The AI performs its analysis locally, ensuring that it only identifies text and images without scanning the entire content for intrusive means. Like Recall, Click to Do aims to respect user privacy.
How to Access the New Features
To utilize these new features, users need to download the April 2025 Windows update. Follow these steps:
- Go to Settings on your PC.
- Select Windows Update.
- Enable the option for "Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available."
- Click on the Check for Updates button.
Keep in mind that these features will be released gradually over the next month, so immediate access may not be available for everyone right away.
These additions reflect Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the Windows user experience through AI, while also addressing privacy concerns that accompany powerful new technologies.
