In May, Microsoft unveiled an innovative feature for Windows 11 known as Recall. This AI-driven tool captures regular screenshots of users’ systems, analyzes the images, and facilitates an efficient search through the history of activities, allowing users to easily locate specific items.
Despite its practical applications, Recall faced significant criticism. Concerns regarding privacy and the extensive data requirements prompted a wave of backlash from users. Although the feature could be disabled, the growing discontent led Microsoft to postpone its official launch, returning Recall to the testing phase. Currently, it remains accessible only to Windows Insiders.
Uninstalling Recall: A New Option for Users
In a surprising turn of events, Microsoft has announced that users will now have the option to completely uninstall Recall, rather than merely disabling it.
With the introduction of the optional KB5041865 preview build, Recall is now categorized as a distinct Windows feature, separate from the core system. Although Microsoft has not formally publicized this change, users can uninstall Recall via the Control Panel.
To remove Recall, follow these steps:
- Open the Control Panel.
- Navigate to Programs.
- Click on Turn Windows features on or off.
- Scroll down to Windows Recall and uncheck the box next to it to remove it completely.
While an official announcement from Microsoft regarding this change is anticipated in the near future, it appears to be a subtle adjustment that has gone largely unnoticed, only recognized by vigilant Windows Insiders.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.
