(Image source from: Economictimes.indiatimes.com)
On Friday, Microsoft introduced three novel artificial intelligence features for Copilot+ PCs. These enhancements form part of the company's preview update aimed for April 2025 and are set to be available to all users as early as next month. Notably, the tech powerhouse from Redmond is launching Recall, an AI function designed to periodically capture screenshots of the device's display, assisting users in remembering their previous activities. Additionally, Microsoft is debuting an upgraded Windows search capability along with a new feature called Click to Do. Through a blog entry, the company highlighted the launch of Recall, the refined Windows search, and Click to Do for Copilot+ PCs. These functionalities will be accessible on all Copilot+ branded devices featuring Snapdragon, Intel, and AMD processors. Initially, these upgrades will be included in the non-security preview update for Windows scheduled for April 2025. Microsoft intends to make these features widely available to consumers in May.
Recall was initially introduced in May 2024 as a tool that tracks search history on devices using AI. It functions by taking ongoing screenshots of various on-screen activities to assist users in picking up where they left off in their tasks. Following its announcement, numerous security professionals expressed worries regarding user privacy and the safeguarding of data. Over the past year, Microsoft claims to have enhanced the tool with several security improvements and has made the AI functionality opt-in for users. The updated version of Recall was first provided to Windows Insiders in November 2024 and is now being distributed to a broader audience.
Another advancement slated for Copilot+ PCs is the enhanced Windows search feature. This upgrade enables the search box in File Explorer, the Windows Search feature, or the Settings menu to support queries in natural language. This allows users to articulate what they’re searching for without needing to specify file names, creation dates, or keywords, as Copilot will effectively locate the desired information. Furthermore, Microsoft is launching Click to Do, an innovative AI feature that presents contextual actions based on the content displayed on the user's screen. It can work with both text and images, executing functions such as summarizing, rewriting, or copying content. The tool also includes a simple option for removing elements from images, even if they are embedded in PDF files. To utilize Click to Do, users must press the Windows key along with a left mouse click or trackpad tap.
