Microsoft has started the rollout of its Recall feature to Copilot+ PCs, along with new AI-powered tools aimed at enhancing user productivity on Windows.
Highlights
Released through the April 2025 non-security preview update, these features will become broadly available next month on devices powered by Snapdragon, Intel, and AMD processors.
Recall, first introduced in May 2024, is designed to assist users by automatically capturing periodic screenshots of on-screen activities.
It creates a searchable timeline, allowing users to revisit previous sessions or locate specific information without the need to manually save every interaction. Initially, the concept raised privacy and data security concerns, but Microsoft has since made significant revisions.
The latest version features stronger security protections and is now opt-in by default, giving users full control over the activation and management of the feature. Before this wider release, Recall underwent testing through the Windows Insider program starting November 2024.
In addition to Recall, Microsoft is introducing two other AI tools: an enhanced Windows Search and a new feature called Click to Do.
The updated search experience supports natural language queries, enabling users to find files, settings, and content by describing what they are looking for in everyday language, rather than relying on specific file names or keywords.
This update aims to make search interactions more intuitive across Windows interfaces, including File Explorer and Settings.
Click to Do adds contextual AI capabilities to the Windows environment. By pressing the Windows key and left-clicking, users can activate AI-driven actions based on the content currently displayed on their screens.
The tool can perform tasks such as summarizing text, rewriting content, copying information, or removing objects from images—including those embedded in PDFs. These quick-access AI features are designed to streamline tasks and reduce the need for switching between multiple applications.
The introduction of these features reflects Microsoft’s broader goal of integrating AI deeper into the Windows experience. It builds on previous expansions of Copilot functionality and signals a move toward AI systems that adapt to user workflows in real time.
Enhanced Security Measures for Recall
To address earlier privacy concerns, Microsoft has incorporated robust security features into Recall. All data captured by Recall is stored locally on the device and encrypted using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM).
Access to the stored data requires Windows Hello authentication, ensuring that only authorized users can view it. Users also have the option to delete individual snapshots or exclude certain applications and websites from being recorded.
Gradual Rollout and Device Compatibility
The Recall feature, along with Click to Do and the improved Windows Search, is being rolled out through the April 2025 Windows non-security preview update.
While available first to Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon, Intel, and AMD processors, some Click to Do functionalities are initially exclusive to Snapdragon-powered devices. Broader support for Intel and AMD systems is expected to follow in the coming months.
User Control and Opt-In Design
Acknowledging the importance of user choice, Microsoft has made Recall an opt-in feature. Users can decide whether to enable or disable Recall, providing flexibility and ensuring that individuals can manage their data according to their preferences.
Integration with Existing Windows Features
The improved Windows Search now allows users to perform searches using natural language, enhancing the experience across the Search box, Settings, and File Explorer. This integration is intended to make interacting with Windows more seamless and user-friendly.
Currently, Recall, Click to Do, and the upgraded Windows Search are accessible through the latest preview update for Copilot+ PCs.
Microsoft plans to make them available to the wider public in May, marking a continued expansion of AI-driven functionality aimed at improving user productivity across the Windows platform.
