Microsoft continues to weave artificial intelligence deeper into the Windows experience with the introduction of Windows Recall, a new feature designed specifically for Copilot+ PCs.
Windows Recall automatically captures your on-screen activity, allowing users to search through it later using AI. Think of it as a smart, searchable history of everything you’ve done on your computer — powered by Microsoft’s AI capabilities.
The feature is already available in the Preview Release Channel, with an official launch expected in the first half of 2025. With this move, Microsoft aims to create a more intuitive, memory-friendly user experience where finding something you’ve seen or done on your PC is just a quick search away.
How does Windows Recall work?
Windows Recall takes productivity to the next level by creating automatic “snapshots” of your on-screen activity. These screenshots are searchable using natural language — meaning you can describe what you remember and let AI do the rest.
For example, if you can’t remember which document had a specific detail you saw earlier, just type a short description, and Recall will surface the right snapshot. Even better, the “Click to Act” feature allows you to interact directly with these snapshots— copying text, clicking a button, or opening a link — from the saved image.
Privacy and Security First
After concerns were raised about privacy, Microsoft added several safeguards:
- Snapshots are stored locally on your device — never uploaded to the cloud.
- Sensitive apps, like password managers or banking tools, are excluded by default.
- Users can customize which apps or websites should not be tracked.
To use Recall, you must enable it manually and verify your identity using Windows Hello. There’s also an option to pause or stop snapshot recording anytime for full control over your data.
Windows Recall aims to make your PC feel more like an extension of your memory while respecting your privacy.
Europe will have to wait.
Microsoft’s new AI-powered feature, Windows Recall, is set to launch in most global markets starting in early 2025, with support for six languages at launch: English, Simplified Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.
However, due to ongoing privacy discussions and regulatory concerns, the European Economic Area rollout will be delayed until late 2025. The delay comes as no surprise given Europe’s strict data protection standards.
With Recall, Microsoft aims to redefine how users interact with their PCs, blending AI-driven productivity with ease of access. While some users remain cautious about privacy implications, Microsoft’s decision to store data only on the device, along with customizable controls and biometric verification, shows a clear effort to address those concerns.
As we’ve said before — features like this may change how we use our computers daily. How we work is evolving, and with tools like Recall, Microsoft is betting on making our digital lives more intuitive and efficient.
