Microsoft says premature patch could make Windows Recall forget how to work

Microsoft says premature patch could make Windows Recall forget how to work

December 4, 2024 at 09:06AM

Microsoft identified that some Windows Insiders could not save snapshots using the Recall preview due to a problematic non-security update (KB5046740). Users are advised against installing this update before joining the Dev Channel, as it could lead to potential issues requiring Windows reinstallation. Recall faces criticism for privacy concerns.

### Meeting Takeaways

1. **Recall Preview Issue Identified**: Microsoft has determined that certain Windows Insiders were unable to save snapshots in the Recall preview due to the installation of a non-security preview (KB5046740) released on November 21.

2. **Non-Security Preview Context**: KB5046740 is the last non-security preview for 2024, with a monthly security release scheduled for December.

3. **User Experience Complications**: Users who installed this update and then joined the Windows Insider Dev channel faced issues with the Recall functionality, leading to potential complications.

4. **Microsoft’s Recommendation**: Users are advised not to install the non-security preview before joining the Dev Channel to avoid future issues.

5. **Possible Solutions**: Those who encountered issues after the installation may need to reinstall Windows, highlighting the challenges of being part of the Windows Insider program.

6. **Recall Functionality Overview**: Recall is designed to take desktop snapshots for users to search for past activities using AI-enhanced text search. Initial demos were promising, but privacy and security concerns have been raised.

7. **Service Retraction and Rebranding**: After initial privacy concerns led to the service being pulled, Microsoft has since attempted to reintroduce Recall to Insiders, alongside ongoing marketing for Copilot+ PCs.

8. **Development Timeline**: The development of the Recall feature has faced multiple delays, with recent efforts to transition it from a preliminary state to something more reliable for end-users.

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