Google Testing IP Address Privacy Features in Chrome to Limit Tracking

Google plans to test hiding IP addresses in Chrome via network proxies, similar to Apple's iCloud Private Relay. This is part of their Privacy Sandbox initiative.

Initial testing will use a single Google proxy on Google domains. Later tests will use two proxies - one Google, one third-party - to better hide IP addresses.

This aims to limit cross-site tracking and complement moves away from third-party cookies. It does not address fingerprinting or tracking via apps.

Google has not proposed a timeline yet but indicated it will be an opt-in feature first before becoming default.

Implementation is underway but details need ironing out, like ensuring anti-abuse mechanisms and allowing IP geolocation services to keep working.