Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 users will not be able to uninstall the controversial “Recall” feature, despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise.
Recall, part of the Copilot+ suite announced in May, automatically captures screenshots of user activity on the operating system, ostensibly to help users easily retrieve past work. However, the feature has been met with widespread criticism over privacy and security concerns.
Bug Misleads Users About Uninstall Option
The confusion arose when the latest Windows 11 update (24H2), specifically KB5041865, showed Recall as an uninstallable option in the “Turn Windows features on or off” dialog within the Control Panel. Reports by Deskmodder initially speculated this as a functional change, but Microsoft quickly clarified the situation.
“We are aware of an issue where Recall is incorrectly listed as an option under the ‘Turn Windows features on or off’ dialog in Control Panel,” said Brandon LeBlanc, Windows senior product manager, in a statement to The Verge. “This will be fixed in an upcoming update.”
Privacy Concerns and Delayed Rollout
Recall’s integration into Windows 11 is designed to track user actions on compatible PCs and leverage a generative AI model to enable quick retrieval of saved screenshots. While potentially useful, the feature raised significant privacy concerns after security researchers discovered the Recall database initially lacked encryption, exposing it to potential malware exploitation. Critics warned of risks involving sensitive data, including passwords, confidential work files, and personal information.
In response to public backlash, Microsoft made several changes. Recall’s database will now be encrypted, and access will require authentication via Windows Hello. Additionally, Microsoft shifted the feature to an opt-in model, ensuring it is disabled by default. Despite these measures, privacy regulators like the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) are also investigating the feature for potential violations of user privacy regulations.
Initially set for release in June, Recall’s launch was delayed to address these concerns. Microsoft now plans to preview the feature with Windows Insiders in October, targeting Copilot+ PCs first. According to Microsoft, this additional time is being used to bolster security and privacy measures.
While Microsoft will fix the bug that led users to believe Recall could be uninstalled, questions remain about the feature’s long-term viability—particularly in regions with stringent privacy laws. Regulatory compliance, such as that mandated by the European Commission’s Digital Markets Act, may eventually require Microsoft to reconsider its approach.
Featured Image courtesy of JASON REDMOND/AFP via Getty Images
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And it won’t be reinstalled on the next update. At least I won’t.