On Friday, Microsoft revealed significant modifications to its Recall feature following widespread criticism from security experts, the media, and its user base. The tech giant will now disable Recall by default on compatible PCs and implement enhanced authentication and encryption measures to bolster data security.
Recall Feature Changes
Interestingly, Microsoft also withdrew the Windows 11 24H2 update build from its Release Preview channel for Windows Insiders. While it’s not uncommon for beta builds to be pulled post-release, the abrupt removal of this particular build hints at a possible connection to the Recall adjustments.
Although Microsoft has not provided a specific reason for halting the update, the company assures users that the pause is temporary and the rollout will resume in the near future. Windows Insider Senior Program Manager Brandon LeBlanc has confirmed that the team is actively working to reinstate the update.
Data Security Enhancements
The Recall feature, exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, captures screenshots and creates a searchable text database of a user’s PC activity. While this can be a valuable tool, the lack of redaction and limited privacy controls in the initial version raised concerns about data security.
As Microsoft addresses these issues, users can still access older Windows 11 builds for their PCs. The pulled 24H2 build will remain functional for those who have already installed it, but it will not be available to new users opting into the Release Preview channel.