Google confirms major privacy delay affecting 3 billion Chrome users

Google LLC has admitted that its plan to phase out third-party tracking cookies in Google Chrome, the world’s most used browser with over 3 billion users, has stalled. This delay has raised serious concerns about privacy and competition.

Google had planned to replace tracking cookies with its new “Privacy Sandbox” system to limit online tracking. However, the company now says the plan is facing challenges. A summary from Google explains:

“We are proposing an updated approach that elevates user choice … Instead of deprecating third-party cookies, we would introduce a new experience in Chrome that lets people make an informed choice that applies across their web browsing.”
“We’re discussing this new path with regulators.”

In simple terms, this means Google will not immediately remove tracking cookies. Instead, it will give users options while keeping the old system in place for now.

Privacy and Competition Concerns

Experts warn that this move could keep Chrome users exposed to tracking and data collection. With billions of users, the impact is massive, especially since most people rarely change default browser settings.

Other browsers like Safari and Firefox already block third-party cookies by default. Google’s delay, critics say, could help maintain its dominant role in online advertising and tracking.

Regulatory and Trust Issues

Google has stated that it is still “discussing with regulators”, suggesting that feedback from authorities may have forced the company to rethink its plan. This delay could also damage user trust, especially among those who care deeply about privacy.

What’s Next

Google says it wants to give users more choice, but details of the new plan remain unclear. Privacy experts argue that until Google completely phases out tracking cookies, the promise of a “more private web” remains unfulfilled. Some also warn that Google’s new systems may simply change how tracking works—not end it altogether.

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