Not a feature, but a bug: Microsoft called the ability to remove the controversial AI function Recall from Windows 11 a mistake

Last week there were reports that users would be able to completely remove the controversial Recall AI feature from Windows 11. Now Microsoft has revealed that the ability to remove this feature in one of its latest updates is just a bug for which a fix is ​​already ready.

Image source: Microsoft

The Deskmodder portal announced the possibility of completely removing Recall last week: after installing the KB5041865 update for Windows 11 24H2, a corresponding option appeared in the “Windows Components” section.

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The controversial Recall feature, which takes screenshots of almost everything you see or do on your computer, was originally scheduled to arrive in Copilot Plus PC in June. However, Microsoft was forced to delay the feature’s release after experts and the public raised concerns about its security. Initially, security researchers discovered that the Recall database, which stores screenshots taken every few seconds, was not encrypted, and computer viruses could access them. And users were concerned that the function was enabled by default.

Recall is scheduled to test launch for Windows Insider members on Copilot Plus PCs in October, Microsoft said. Thus, the company gave itself more time to make major changes to Recall. And now the controversial AI function Recall will be optional, and not enabled by default, it has added database encryption, as well as authentication via Windows Hello.

The Verge asked Microsoft if it would allow Windows users to completely remove Recall, as evidenced by the ability to do so in Windows Feature Control, but the company said it was simply a bug. Microsoft may have to add an option to remove Recall in Windows 11 for EU users to comply with local digital markets law. Microsoft has already had to add an option to uninstall Edge in European Economic Area (EEA) countries, as well as the ability to remove Bing-based web search from the Start menu.