In May, Microsoft introduced a new feature for Windows 11 called “Recall.” This AI-driven tool automatically captures screenshots of your computer’s activities, analyzes them, and lets you quickly search through your history to find past actions. While this feature seemed promising, it was met with strong criticism.
Many users were concerned about privacy, fearing that a tool constantly monitoring their activities could lead to data exposure. Additionally, there were worries about the large amount of data Recall would generate. Despite being able to disable the feature, the backlash grew, prompting Microsoft to delay its official release and send it back into testing. Currently, Recall is only available to Windows Insiders, who test new features before they are publicly released.
In a surprising move, Microsoft now allows users to completely uninstall Recall, instead of disabling it. With the optional KB5041865 preview build, Recall is now being treated as a removable Windows feature. Although Microsoft hasn’t officially announced this, users can now uninstall Recall through the Control Panel.
To remove Recall, go to the Control Panel, navigate to Programs, then click “Turn Windows features on or off.” Scroll down to find “Windows Recall” and uncheck the box to remove it entirely from your system.
This change, even still not announced, may soon be officially confirmed by Microsoft.