According to Cointelegraph, Microsoft is testing a new Windows feature called 'Intelligent Media Search' that transcribes media files into text for AI processing. This feature converts spoken words in audio or video files on a Windows computer into text, which is then saved to a data file accessible by an AI model. Users who enable this feature can perform text searches for any words appearing in their videos. For instance, content creators with extensive video libraries can use 'Intelligent Media Search' to locate specific lines or organize files containing particular words or phrases.
The feature is currently being trialed for select members of the Windows Insiders group, who have opted in to test features not yet ready for public release. This trial does not guarantee that the feature will be included in current or future versions of Windows.
The introduction of Intelligent Media Search comes amid ongoing privacy concerns surrounding Microsoft's upcoming 'Recall' feature, which allows the company to track user activity on their devices. Initially reported as mandatory, Microsoft has since clarified that Recall will be optional. Similarly, Intelligent Media Search will also be optional for Windows users. According to Tom’s Hardware, users who have tested the feature had to consent to both the AI model's download and its access to their files.