Copilot Plus PCs Are Getting That AI Recall Feature for Real Now
Microsoft is rolling out new AI tools to its Copilot Plus PC lineup, including contextual shortcuts, better search — and its controversial Recall feature.
The new tools are available through its April 2025 Windows non-security preview update for users of the Snapchat-powered, AI-enabled PCs, Microsoft said in a blog post Friday. The update comes about two weeks after Microsoft’s long-delayed Recall feature became available in preview to more of the company’s Windows Insiders, a group of users who test prerelease versions of its software.
Last May, Microsoft’s Recall tool for Windows 11 made headlines when the company teased the tool that acts like a “time machine,” allowing Windows users to find anything previously displayed on their screen, from documents and images to websites, by searching for keywords. But the feature quickly faced scrutiny from privacy advocates, forcing Microsoft to delay the rollout for additional review.
Now anyone using a Copilot Plus PC can access the tool in preview.
The updates come as Microsoft and other tech companies continue to expand and offer new AI-powered features as part of a greater effort to stand out in a crowded marketplace. However, many companies, including Microsoft, are still trying to navigate the security and privacy challenges that come with using generative AI.
Microsoft said it is also improving Windows search with AI by giving users the ability to more easily describe what they’re looking for with natural language, rather than requiring them to recall file names or specific words. Meanwhile, its new Click to Do feature provides shortcuts to actions like summarizing, rewriting or copying text or images, and aims to make it easier to move between tasks.
These tools join existing AI features, such as the ability to create artwork by entering text prompts or drawings in the app Cocreator and to access live translations via Live Captions.
Earlier this year, Microsoft said 15% of premium-priced laptops purchased in the US over the holiday shopping period were Copilot Plus PCs.