Microsoft has introduced new AI features for Windows 11 that are exclusive to Copilot+ PCs with powerful NPUs. However, a user managed to run Windows Recall on Arm64 hardware, bypassing the strict requirements. The demo showed the feature working, but with slow and sluggish performance, highlighting the need for a powerful NPU.
The Windows hacker Albacore demonstrated the feature in a video, showcasing its functionality. The feature, called Screenray, allows users to track their steps in a context-sensitive mode. Despite the hack to run it on Arm64 hardware, it is emphasized that a strong NPU is necessary for optimal performance.
Windows Recall has raised concerns about security and privacy. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella discussed the feature, which captures snapshots of user activity on the PC to provide a photographic memory of user actions. While Microsoft promises that the feature is privacy-focused and runs on the device via NPU, user concerns persist.
Users can opt into the feature and have the ability to turn it off at any time. They can also control which apps or websites the feature captures screenshots of, and how long the data is stored. The feature is available only on Copilot+ PCs due to its reliance on a powerful NPU.
Despite Microsoft’s assurances, some users remain skeptical and are considering transitioning to other operating systems like Linux. Elon Musk even compared the feature to an episode of Black Mirror. The UK’s data watchdog is investigating the feature to ensure user privacy protections are in place.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s new AI feature for Windows 11, Windows Recall, has sparked controversy due to its privacy implications. While the feature offers unique capabilities, users remain concerned about the potential risks. Microsoft’s focus on privacy and the use of NPUs to run the feature locally are key points of contention. The investigation by data watchdogs and the responses from users and tech leaders highlight the ongoing debate surrounding AI features in operating systems.
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https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-11/windows-11-ai-powered-recall-feature-can-run-on-unsupported-laptops-but-suffers-huge-performance-loss-without-copilot-pc-npus
