Microsoft's Windows Recall feature has faced criticism for its approach to user data, capturing passive snapshots of activity every few seconds. Concerns have been raised about privacy and the invasiveness of such monitoring, with users expressing discomfort over having their actions recorded continuously.
In contrast, the newly introduced Screen Aware AI from Copilot, branded as Copilot Vision, aims to provide real-time assistance without the need for an extensive log of past activities. Unlike Windows Recall, this feature responds to specific user requests, offering support for current tasks rather than storing a timeline of previous actions.
Users have noted that while having access to historical data can be beneficial, it often does not outweigh the security risks associated with storing such information. Many prefer to utilize their internet search history for past references instead of relying on a comprehensive log from Windows Recall.
With Copilot Vision, users can actively engage with the AI for help with ongoing tasks, making it feel more like a supportive tool than an invasive surveillance system. This shift in focus from past to present interactions represents a significant change in how Microsoft approaches user assistance through AI.