Microsoft's Recall Feature on Windows 11 Not Removable After All

Microsoft has confirmed that the "Recall" feature in Windows 11 cannot be uninstalled, contrary to earlier reports suggesting it might be removable. Recall, part of the Copilot+ suite introduced in May, automatically captures screenshots of user activity to help retrieve past work. A bug in the latest Windows 11 update (24H2) misled users into thinking they could uninstall the feature, but Microsoft clarified that this option was incorrectly displayed in the Control Panel and will be corrected in a future update. The Recall feature is integrated into Windows 11's core functionality and utilizes an on-device generative AI model to manage saved screenshots. Critics have raised concerns about potential cybersecurity risks, as the feature could store sensitive information such as passwords and confidential documents. In response to public backlash, Microsoft announced that Recall would be opt-in, meaning it would be disabled by default. The UK's Information Commissioner’s Office is investigating the feature for possible privacy regulation violations. Initially set for release in June, the launch of Recall has been postponed to address these security concerns, with plans to roll it out to Windows Insiders in October.

- Microsoft confirms Recall feature in Windows 11 cannot be uninstalled.

- Earlier reports about uninstalling Recall were based on a bug.

- Recall captures user activity screenshots, raising cybersecurity concerns.

- Feature will be opt-in and disabled by default due to public backlash.

- UK’s ICO is investigating Recall for potential privacy violations.