AI search now available for all copilot+ and PCs

With the Start of recall Microsoft officially brings one of the most exciting new functions for Copilot+ PCs to the general public. AI-supported search technology is intended to help users access the computer quickly and intuitively. Despite some controversy about data protection and security, Recall remains a significant step in the further development of personalized IT experiences.

• Recall is available exclusively for Copilot+ PCs and uses local AI models.
• The function automatically creates “snapshots” of all screen activities.
• With natural language, users can specifically search for past content.
• Data protection options allow an individual adjustment to which content is recorded.

What makes recall special

Recall works with locally executed AI models, which means that the data is processed directly on the device and not via the cloud. This should better protect sensitive information – an important argument given the concerns that have already been loud in advance. The function takes on screenshots of the screen content at regular intervals. These snapshots are made searchable so that you no longer need to know where exactly a file was saved or in which app showed a certain information.

Instead, a search query in everyday language such as “show me the recipe that I opened last week”. Microsoft emphasizes that recall can be consciously adapted to the user. Certain apps, websites or sensitive information can be excluded from the recording. In addition, all stored data can be deleted at any time. This flexibility is intended to help address data protection concerns and still use the advantages of the new technology.

Requirements and first devices with recall

Recall will be available exclusively on the new Copilot+ PCs – a new device class that is equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and Plus chip sets. With their integrated NPU (Neural Processing Unit), these processors enable the efficient local execution of AI applications such as recall. The first Copilot+ PCs, including models from Dell, HP, Lenovo, Acer and Asus, will probably be available from June 2025.

A prerequisite for the use of recall is not only the right hardware, but also Windows 11 in a special, updated version that fully supports the Copilot+ features. According to Microsoft, manual retrofitting of older PCs is excluded because the hardware requirements-especially the NPU performance-are considered essential for the function. This means that Recall remains a premium feature that is reserved for the new PC generations.

Conclusion

With Recall, Microsoft presents an innovative tool that could fundamentally change the way users find information on their PC. Despite the initial criticism of data protection, the local AI offers a promising approach to make relevant content accessible faster and more intuitively.