General
Google Reverses Plan to Block Third-Party Cookies in Chrome
In a surprising move, Google has abandoned its four-year-old plan to block third-party cookies from its Chrome internet browser. The UK’s data privacy watchdog has expressed disappointment over this decision, which marks a significant shift in Google’s approach to online privacy and advertising.
Cookies are small files stored on a user’s computer that enable advertisers to track internet activity and tailor advertising accordingly. Google’s initial plan was to eliminate these cookies to enhance user privacy. However, the tech giant has now announced a new strategy to provide users with an “informed choice” across their web browsing experience, while continuing discussions with regulators to determine the next steps.
This decision suggests that Google is not completely discarding its alternative approach to advertising, known as “Privacy Sandbox,” but will allow a third-party cookie-based system to operate alongside it. Consequently, internet users can expect to continue seeing pop-up notifications asking them to enable or disable cookies in the future.
Stephen Bonner of the Information Commissioner’s Office commented on the development, stating, “It has been our view that blocking third-party cookies would be a positive step for consumers. The new plan set out by Google is a significant change, and we will reflect on this new course of action when more detail is available.”
The Role of Third-Party Cookies
Third-party cookies have long been integral to digital advertising, allowing advertisers to track user behavior across different websites and create consumer profiles based on their interests. As a major player in the online advertising industry, Google’s plan to replace cookies with its “Privacy Sandbox” initiative had been controversial, drawing criticism from rivals and online advertising businesses.
Entertainment
Travis Kelce Impresses in Acting Debut: Cast and Crew Praise NFL Star’s Transition to TV”
Ahead of Travis Kelce’s much-anticipated debut, his costars Courtney B. Vance, Raven Goodwin, and more expressed their admiration for the NFL star’s acting skills in exclusive interviews with E! News.
Travis made a remarkable impact on his Grotesquerie castmates, both on and off camera, leaving a lasting positive impression.
According to his TV family, he has great potential in acting. “Absolutely,” shared costar and executive producer Courtney B. Vance. “He was incredibly prepared and a wonderful, wonderful man.”
Raven Goodwin echoed these sentiments, describing him as “lovely” and “gracious.” She noted, “He can do anything he wants to do. He’s Travis Kelce.”
Actress Micaela Diamond also highlighted his team spirit, saying, “I had a great time working with Travis. He’s such a dear.”
For both Micaela and Travis, Grotesquerie marks a significant milestone, as it’s their first big TV project. “We were just the newbies on set, learning from these amazing actors,” she explained.
Nicholas Alexander Chavez was also impressed, saying, “I can’t believe it’s his first show. He brought so much confidence to the role.”
Ryan Murphy, the show’s creator, praised Travis’ charisma at the New York premiere. “A star is a star, and Travis is one,” Ryan remarked. “He’s so smart and so lovely.”
Off-set, Travis also had the support of his girlfriend Taylor Swift, who encouraged him to explore his new passion. Ryan shared, “She’s been very supportive of him, and I was thrilled about that.”
General
Florian Wirtz Shines as Bayer Leverkusen Dominates Feyenoord in Champions League
Florian Wirtz made an impressive Champions League debut, scoring twice as Bayer Leverkusen cruised to a commanding victory over Feyenoord. The 21-year-old German international opened the scoring just five minutes into the match, placing a precise shot into the bottom corner from 20 yards out.
Leverkusen’s second goal came from a well-executed combination between their wing-backs, as Jeremie Frimpong delivered a pinpoint cross for Alex Grimaldo to convert. Frimpong was once again the provider, setting up Wirtz for his second goal, a well-taken volley that gave the visitors a 3-0 lead.
The game was effectively over by half-time when Edmond Tapsoba’s header forced Feyenoord goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther into an own goal, capping off a clinical performance from the Bundesliga champions.
Despite having fewer shots than their Dutch opponents, Leverkusen was ruthless with their chances, securing a comprehensive win. This marked Feyenoord’s first loss under new manager Brian Priske, who took over following Arne Slot’s departure to Liverpool.
General
Jannik Sinner Cleared After Positive Tests for Banned Substance
World number one Jannik Sinner has been officially cleared of any wrongdoing following two positive tests for a banned substance in March. The Italian tennis star tested positive for low levels of clostebol, a steroid commonly used to build muscle mass, during the Indian Wells tournament.
A second sample taken eight days later also returned a positive result for the same substance. As a result, Sinner was automatically placed under a provisional suspension. However, he successfully challenged this suspension, allowing him to continue competing.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) conducted an investigation and found that Sinner had been inadvertently contaminated by his physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi. Naldi had applied an over-the-counter spray containing clostebol to treat a cut on his own hand before performing treatments on Sinner. The ITIA accepted that the contamination was unintentional, and an independent tribunal cleared Sinner of any fault or negligence last week.
Despite being cleared, Sinner will lose the ranking points and prize money he earned from his semi-final run at Indian Wells. Reflecting on the ordeal, Sinner stated, “I will now put this challenging and deeply unfortunate period behind me. I will continue to do everything I can to ensure I comply with the ITIA’s anti-doping program. I have a team around me that is meticulous in their own compliance.”
Clostebol, which is often found in products used to treat swelling and irritation, is listed as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Sinner, who is also the reigning Australian Open champion, will enter the US Open as the top seed, with the tournament set to begin on Monday.
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