Microsoft has begun testing a new Windows feature called 'Intelligent Media Search,' which can transcribe media files into text for further AI processing.
New Feature by Microsoft
This feature allows converting any spoken words in audio or video files on a Windows computer into text. The text output is saved to a file that can then be accessed by an AI model. Users who enable the feature can perform text searches for any words appearing in their videos. For example, a content creator with an extensive library of videos stored on their device could use the 'Intelligent Media Search' feature to find a video with a specific phrase or to organize all files with specific words or phrases.
Privacy Concerns
The feature comes amid heightened privacy concerns as Microsoft faces criticism from privacy advocates over its upcoming 'Recall' feature that essentially allows the company to track user activities on their device. Early reports indicated that 'Recall' would be a mandatory feature for Windows users, but the company later stated it would be optional.
Prospects and Requirements
'Intelligent Media Search' will also be optional for Windows users. According to Tom’s Hardware, users who have tested it so far were required to consent to the AI model’s download and its access to their files. Per Tom’s Hardware, the feature is being trialed only for select members of the Windows Insiders group—users who have opted into features not yet ready for public use. This means there is no guarantee that current or future versions of Windows will receive the new feature.
The introduction of Microsoft's 'Intelligent Media Search' could significantly enhance search and content organization capabilities on devices while ensuring user privacy and data control.
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