Google is reportedly developing an IP protection feature for Chrome

Google is developing an IP Protection feature for Google Chrome, designed to allow users to hide their IP addresses from websites and combat cross-site tracking.

Initially, IP protection will be available on Google-owned domains such as Google.com, Gmail, and Google Ad Services. The feature will be optional and accessible to U.S. users logged into their Google accounts on Chrome. Before a broader implementation, the IP protection will be tested and then will employ a two-hop proxy, using an external network to enhance privacy.

The IP Protection feature aims to prevent tracking beyond traditional cookies while preserving valid IP operations. It is similar to Apple's iCloud Private Relay in Safari, which encrypts DNS records and creates temporary IP addresses for users. This privacy upgrade aligns with Google's ongoing initiative to eliminate third-party cookies by 2024, reducing the potential for tracking users across multiple sites.