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Microsoft is introducing a new AI system that monitors all user activity on their computer.
The system is designed to function like a “photographic memory,” allowing users to recall what they have seen or done on their PC. It will also assist in predicting and suggesting the user’s following actions.
Microsoft promoted “Windows Recall” to enhance its built-in AI tools. According to the company, it enables users to “virtually access everything they have seen or done on their PC in a way that feels like having a photographic memory.”
However, it will likely raise privacy concerns among users who are worried about the data it collects. Microsoft stated that users would have control over how much and what type of data the system gathers.
This was one of several features and new products that Microsoft unveiled at its “Build” conference this week. Most of these features integrate AI tools into Windows to make it quicker and easier to create new documents and find information.
The conference follows significant AI announcements last week from rival Google and Microsoft’s close business partner OpenAI, the developer of the AI large language models that power Microsoft’s Copilot.
Google unveiled an updated search engine that occasionally places AI-generated summaries above website links at the top of the results page. They also showcased a still-in-development AI assistant, Astra, which will be capable of “seeing” and discussing objects viewed through a smartphone’s camera lens.
Last week, ChatGPT-maker OpenAI introduced a new version of its chatbot, showcasing an AI voice assistant with human-like characteristics capable of bantering about someone’s attire and even attempting to assess emotions. The voice bore such a striking resemblance to Scarlett Johansson’s AI character in the sci-fi movie “Her” that OpenAI removed from its collection on Monday.
OpenAI also released a new desktop version of ChatGPT tailored for Apple’s Mac computers.
Next in line is Apple’s annual developers conference in June. Apple CEO Tim Cook hinted at the company’s annual shareholder meeting in February that significant investments have been made in generative AI.
Apart from that, Microsoft’s announcements on Monday seemed strategically aimed at countering whatever Apple has in store. The newly AI-enhanced Windows PCs are set to launch on June 18, available on computers manufactured by Microsoft partners such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung, as well as on Microsoft’s Surface line of devices. However, they will initially be exclusive to premium models starting at $999.
