How to Disable Microsoft’s Controversial “Recall” Feature on Windows 11

Microsoft has recently started rolling out its controversial “Recall” feature to Copilot+ PCs. While designed to help users quickly find files, websites, or documents using AI, this feature raises significant privacy concerns due to its intrusive nature. However, if you’d prefer not to have it on your system—even in a dormant state—rest assured: there are ways to remove it.

Here’s how to disable Microsoft Recall on Windows 11.

What Is Microsoft Recall?

Microsoft Recall is an AI-powered search tool that allows users to retrieve any digital content they’ve viewed or interacted with on their PC. Whether it’s a document, website, image, or email, Recall can bring it back using screenshots (or snapshots) taken at regular intervals.

This functionality is part of Microsoft’s broader push to integrate more artificial intelligence into Windows 11, particularly for devices branded as Copilot+ PCs .

Why You Might Want to Disable Recall

While Microsoft claims the feature enhances productivity, many users and cybersecurity experts are concerned about the privacy implications :

• Screenshots Are Taken Constantly : Every action you perform on your device triggers a snapshot.
• Data Storage : These snapshots are stored locally but are encrypted.
• Potential for Misuse : Even though sensitive data like passwords are supposedly excluded, the sheer volume of captured data could be exploited if compromised.

In short, even if you trust Microsoft, having such a comprehensive monitoring system active on your machine may feel invasive.

Steps to Disable Recall on Windows 11

If you’d rather not use Recall, follow these steps to disable and remove it from your system:

Step 1: Open Settings

1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
2. In the left-hand menu, click on System .
3. Scroll down and select Optional Features .

Step 2: Access Additional Windows Features

1. On the Optional Features page, scroll to the bottom and click More Windows Features .

Step 3: Turn Off Recall

1. A new window titled Turn Windows Features On or Off will appear.
2. Locate the line labeled Recall and uncheck it.
3. Click OK to apply the changes.

Step 4: Restart Your PC

1. After confirming your selection, Windows will begin removing the feature.
2. A message saying “Searching for required files” may appear—this is normal.
3. Once completed, click Restart Now to finalize the removal.

After rebooting, the Recall feature should no longer appear anywhere in your system menus or settings.

Additional Privacy Safeguards by Microsoft

To reassure users, Microsoft has implemented several safeguards:

• All snapshots are encrypted .
• Sensitive data (like passwords) is not recorded.
• Users can filter apps and websites to exclude them from being tracked.

Despite these precautions, Recall is not enabled by default , and manual activation is required for it to function. If you haven’t activated it yet, it won’t be running on your system.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft Recall represents a bold step toward integrating AI into everyday computing. However, its invasive tracking mechanism makes it unsuitable for many users who value privacy over convenience.

Thankfully, Microsoft allows users to completely disable the feature if they choose. By following the simple steps above, you can ensure that your PC remains free of this potentially intrusive tool.