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Google Chrome launches crackdown on data-tracking cookies — What you need to know

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Google has initiated testing of significant changes aimed at enhancing online user privacy by disabling third-party cookies in its Chrome browser, BBC reported. 

These cookies, small files stored on users’ devices to collect analytic data, personalise online ads, and monitor browsing, will be deactivated through a new feature.

The initial rollout of this privacy feature will be available to approximately 1% of global Chrome users, encompassing around 30 million individuals.

 Google labels these changes as a trial run, with plans for a complete elimination of cookies later in the year. Despite the company’s commitment to privacy, some advertisers are expressing concerns about potential negative impacts on their operations.

Google’s Chrome browser, currently the most widely used globally, is taking this step while competitors like Apple’s Safari and Mozilla Firefox, although accounting for less internet traffic, have already incorporated options to block third-party cookies.

In a blog post, Anthony Chavez, Google’s Vice President, emphasised the company’s responsible approach to phasing out third-party cookies in Chrome. He explained that users would be randomly prompted to choose whether they want to “browse with more privacy.” Additionally, if a website encounters issues without third-party cookies, users may receive an option to temporarily re-enable them for that specific site.

While Google asserts its commitment to making the internet more private, many websites rely on cookies for advertising revenue. Cookies record various user data, including site interactions, geographic location, device details, and subsequent online activities. Some users find personalised ads generated through these cookies intrusive.

Phil Duffield, UK Vice President at The Trade Desk, a platform for online ad purchases, criticised Google’s solution, the Chrome Privacy Sandbox, suggesting it primarily benefits Google. He argued that safeguarding consumer privacy should not hinder publishers’ revenue streams and urged the advertising industry to collectively develop better alternatives.

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority retains the authority to block Google’s plans if it determines potential harm to other businesses.

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Balochistani Graduates Selected for NUTECH Islamabad’s Mining Program

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For 18 graduates of the Reko Diq Mining Project, the National University of Technology, Islamabad, has started a training program. These graduates will complete an 18-month on-the-job training program at Barrick’s International Mining Sites after completing a two-month course at NUTECH.

The graduates will acquire proficiency in mining and associated technical domains during the training program. The chosen graduates will also get specific instruction on environmental protection, safety, exploration, and geology.

Along with the development of communication skills, the curriculum will also emphasise the most recent advancements in the mining industry. Barrick’s International Graduate Development Program for 2024 includes the Balochistani graduates.

Additionally, nine Baloch graduates were selected in 2023 and transported to Barrick’s facility in Argentina for on-the-job training.

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WhatsApp will improve the updates tab by introducing new shortcuts and a revamped interface.

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WhatsApp is implementing a new upgrade to refine the Updates tab interface, hence boosting accessibility for status and channel updates.

WABetaInfo reports that the upgrade introduces expedited shortcuts that streamline the updating of statuses and channels. Users can now select and upload photos and videos directly from the interface, reducing the steps involved in choosing media from the gallery.

The Meta-owned messaging application has also revamped the button for generating text-based status updates and introduced a feature for recording and sharing voice status updates. This offers customers a more expedient method to disseminate text and speech updates without depending on the floating action button.

The revisions correspond with recent modifications to other tabs, ensuring a modernised interface that improves navigation and update creation. WhatsApp is modifying the floating action button to facilitate content sharing within channels.

When selecting the floating action button, users will see several options, including creating status updates, starting new channels, or sharing photos, videos, voice, and text in existing channels. This revamp integrates all content-generating options into a singular section.

The new shortcuts are anticipated to be accessible to a broader user base in the forthcoming weeks. Beta testers can currently access them in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android, version 2.24.26.13, available on the Google Play Store.

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China and Pakistan Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Launch AI-Powered Agricultural Equipment

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Through Chinese expertise, the arrangement, which was made possible by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), intends to increase Pakistan’s agricultural output.

The Punjab government and China’s “AI Force Tech” company have inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to introduce advanced agricultural machinery during Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s visit to China.

Through the use of advanced robotic technology, the MoU seeks to transform Pakistan’s agricultural industry, guarantee economic growth, and boost farmers’ wealth with China’s assistance.

Through the partnership, Pakistan would also have the chance to absorb knowledge about China’s sophisticated farming methods.

In the meantime, plans have been revealed by the Federal Minister of Planning to send 1,000 agricultural experts to China to study contemporary farming methods.

A Chinese business and the Punjab government previously inked an agreement to introduce cutting-edge cancer treatment technologies to Punjab.

Maryam Nawaz signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hygea Medical Technologies while she was in China in order to introduce cutting-edge cancer treatment equipment and techniques to Punjab.

This equipment will make it feasible to treat cancer without the need for chemotherapy or surgery.

Following a meeting with Hygea Medical Technologies President Dr. Luo Fuliang, Maryam Nawaz said the organization has promised expert assistance for the establishment of the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital.

She went on to say that the hospital will work with China to treat cancer patients utilizing the newest equipment and techniques following the agreement.

Maryam Nawaz and a high-level delegation are present. From December 8 to December 15, the chief minister will go to Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.

CM Maryam Nawaz is expected to attend a number of conferences, events, and meetings with the goal of enhancing bilateral relations and looking into potential joint ventures in the areas of infrastructure development, technology, agriculture, and governance.

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