Microsoft Copilot+ Daily news digest, 09-02-2024

Executive summary:

In analyzing the recent news surrounding Microsoft Copilot+, several key categories emerge that highlight both the advancements and concerns associated with this new AI-powered platform.

Battery Life is a significant consideration, particularly with the introduction of new devices featuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus chip. While these models promise improved performance, there is a lack of comprehensive data regarding their battery efficiency compared to existing models. The Asus Zenbook S16, for instance, showcases strong performance but raises questions about its battery life relative to Qualcomm-based laptops. This uncertainty could influence consumer decisions, especially for those prioritizing longevity in their devices.

System Performance is another critical area of focus. The new Snapdragon X Plus 8-core chip is expected to enhance performance, yet there are concerns about how it stacks up against the existing 10-core versions. The mixed performance results reported for AI tasks across different frameworks further complicate the narrative, suggesting that while some users may experience significant benefits, others might not see the same level of improvement. The performance of AI applications remains a pivotal factor, as limited availability could hinder the overall user experience.

Hardware developments are promising, with Lenovo's upcoming models offering a range of options, including convertible and clamshell designs. The introduction of various processors, including Intel and AMD, provides consumers with more choices. However, the competition from established brands like Dell and HP could pose challenges for Lenovo, particularly if they offer similar specifications at competitive prices. The sleek design of devices like the Asus Zenbook S16 also highlights the importance of aesthetics in hardware choices.

Software concerns are prevalent, particularly regarding the Recall feature in Windows 11. The fact that users cannot uninstall this feature raises significant questions about user control and software reliability. While Microsoft has positioned Recall as an opt-in experience, the potential for future updates to alter this status could lead to user dissatisfaction. Additionally, the presence of bugs related to Copilot+ features indicates that while Microsoft is actively addressing issues, the reliability of the software remains a concern.

Security and Privacy are intertwined in the discussions surrounding the Recall feature. The multiple privacy concerns that have delayed its launch suggest that users are wary of how their data may be handled. The inability to uninstall Recall could exacerbate these concerns, as users may feel they lack control over their personal information. Furthermore, reports of potential vulnerabilities in Microsoft Copilot highlight the need for robust security measures to protect users from low-tech hacking methods.

In conclusion, while Microsoft Copilot+ presents exciting advancements in AI technology and hardware options, it also faces significant challenges related to performance, software reliability, and user privacy. As the platform evolves, addressing these concerns will be crucial for gaining user trust and ensuring widespread adoption.

Details

Sorry, Windows 11 users, but you’re not escaping Microsoft’s all-seeing Recall feature that easily

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.techradar.com/computing/windows/sorry-windows-11-users-but-youre-not-escaping-microsofts-all-seeing-recall-feature-that-easily

Microsoft’s Recall AI Uninstall Is Only a Bug, Still Coming as Mandatory Copilot Plus Feature

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.techtimes.com/articles/307342/20240902/microsoft-s-recall-ai-uninstall-bug-still-coming-mandatory-copilot.htm

Lenovo leak reveals cheaper Copilot Plus PCs are coming this month

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
More affordable pricing compared to existing models, with starting prices of €899 and €999 for Lenovo's new models. Uncertainty about US pricing and whether it will reflect similar discounts as seen in Europe.
Introduction of new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus 8-core chip, potentially offering improved performance. Limited information on the performance differences between the new 8-core chip and the existing 10-core versions.
Availability of various models, including convertible and clamshell designs, catering to different user preferences. Competition from other brands like Dell and HP, which may offer similar or better specifications at competitive prices.
Launch of additional models powered by Intel and AMD processors, providing users with more options. Potential concerns about the longevity and support for the new Snapdragon X Plus chip compared to more established processors.

Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/2/24234003/lenovo-leak-copilot-plus-pcs-ifa-2024

Is Microsoft’s Copilot the future of how businesses use AI productively?

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/microsoft-copilot-future-businesses-ai-070136041.html

Microsoft is not letting you uninstall Recall in Windows 11

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Recall feature is an opt-in experience, allowing users to control its activation. Recall feature has faced multiple privacy concerns, delaying its launch.
Copilot+ PCs are designed to enhance user experience with Windows 11. There is uncertainty about whether Recall will be uninstallable in the future.
Microsoft is actively addressing bugs and issues related to Copilot+ features. The presence of bugs, such as the incorrect listing of Recall in Windows features, raises concerns about software reliability.
Users can enjoy Copilot+ PC experience without automatic snapshots being taken. The potential for future updates to change the opt-in status of Recall could affect user control.

Source: https://www.neowin.net/news/microsoft-is-not-letting-you-uninstall-recall-in-windows-11/

Microsoft Copilot could have been hacked by some very low-tech methods

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/microsoft-copilot-could-have-been-hacked-by-some-very-low-tech-methods/ar-AA1pwUlZ?ocid=BingNewsVerp&apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1

Asus Zenbook S16 review: AMD AI PC looks sleek, runs fast

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Sleek design of laptops like Asus Zenbook S16 Limited availability of applications fully utilizing AI features
Powerful AMD Ryzen AI processor with NPU Potential app compatibility issues with Arm-based processors
High performance in AI tasks with 50 TOPS Mixed performance results depending on AI framework used
Strong everyday productivity performance compared to competitors Battery life may be inferior to Qualcomm-based laptops
Optimized game performance for casual gaming Lack of comprehensive benchmarks for Qualcomm-based laptops
Impressive scores in Geekbench and PCMark tests

Source: https://www.techgoondu.com/2024/09/02/asus-zenbook-s16-review-amd-ai-pc-looks-sleek-runs-fast/

AI chatbots must learn to say 'help,' says Microsoft exec

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://japantoday.com/category/tech/ai-chatbots-must-learn-to-say-'help!'-says-microsoft-exec

Leaked: Lenovo Set to Launch Affordable Copilot Plus PCs with New Snapdragon X Plus Chipsets

Key positive aspects of Copilot+ Key concerns related to Copilot+
Affordable pricing for new models, starting at €899 for Slim 5x and €999 for IdeaPad 5x 2-in-1 Uncertainty about pricing in the US market compared to Europe
Introduction of devices powered by the new Snapdragon X Plus 8-core chip Potential performance differences between Snapdragon X Plus and existing 10-core models
Availability of a wider range of options, including Intel and AMD processor models Higher prices currently associated with AI-enabled PCs may still be a barrier for some consumers
Features like 14-inch OLED displays in new models Limited information on the performance and capabilities of the new Snapdragon X Plus chip
Expected unveiling at IFA Berlin, generating consumer interest Competition from other brands like Dell and HP offering discounted rates

Source: https://techeconomy.ng/leaked-lenovo-set-to-launch-affordable-copilot-plus-pcs-with-new-snapdragon-x-plus-chipsets/

Microsoft says option to uninstall Recall feature is a bug

This is not a Copilot+ review.

Source: https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/microsoft-s-recall-uninstall-option-in-windows-11-is-a-bug/story