Google Abandons Plan to Eliminate Third-Party Cookies in Chrome

Google Retracts Plan to Remove Third-Party Cookies in Chrome

Google has decided not to ban third-party cookies in its Chrome browser, instead opting to allow users to manage their cookie settings centrally. The original plans for a cookie-less solution did not receive full support from competition watchdogs or the advertising industry. Cookies, which store information about user browsing habits, have long been criticized by privacy advocates. Websites and apps must obtain user consent before storing and using cookies for advertising purposes. However, many users find the cookie consent pop-ups annoying and often dismiss them without consideration. Google's initial plan to eliminate tracking of individual user behavior received support from privacy advocates but faced criticism from the advertising industry and competition regulators concerned about Google's dominant position. Google's updated approach now focuses on empowering users to make informed decisions that apply to their entire internet browsing experience. The company will present this plan to regulatory authorities for review. The decision to retain third-party cookies in Chrome has disappointed privacy advocates, who saw their elimination as a step forward for consumers.