Microsoft will allow the controversial Recall AI feature to be completely removed from Windows 11

The Recall function, which automatically takes screenshots of user actions, analyzes his activity and allows you to return to the right moment in the recent past, can be completely removed from the PC through the control panel, and not just disabled, PCWorld reports. This is how Microsoft responded to criticism and user concerns about privacy.

Image source: Microsoft

Earlier this year, Microsoft announced a new feature called Recall for Windows 11. Powered by artificial intelligence, the tool automatically takes system screenshots and analyzes them to make it easier to access relevant information from the recent past. It would seem that the function should be useful, since it allows you to search for the necessary moments in the history of user activity. But despite the obvious advantages, Recall faced serious criticism from users.

Many have expressed concerns about the privacy issues associated with the constant taking of screenshots. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the amount of data such a feature could generate and store. These concerns led to discussions about Recall becoming increasingly tense, despite the fact that the feature could be disabled. Users eventually called on Microsoft to reconsider the tool.

In response to growing dissatisfaction, the company decided to pause the official rollout of Recall and returned it for development and testing, available only to members of the Windows Insider program. Microsoft has now given users the option to completely remove Recall rather than simply disabling it. This will become possible with update KB5041865, in which Recall will become a separate Windows function, and not part of the system kernel

Interestingly, this change was not widely announced, but attentive users discovered that they could already remove Recall themselves. To do this, open the Control Panel, go to the Programs section, and then select Turn Windows features on or off. Next, find the Windows Recall option and uncheck the box next to it to completely remove this feature.

Microsoft plans to make an official announcement regarding this in the coming days or weeks.