Apple has issued a bold warning to its nearly two billion iPhone users, urging them to delete a certain internet browser over growing concerns about digital privacy.
While Apple did not specifically name the company, many are taking this as a veiled reference to Google’s Chrome browser.
The message has sparked attention after Google recently backtracked on its promise to eliminate third-party tracking cookies in Chrome, which has serious implications for user privacy.
The Controversy Surrounding Chrome’s Third-Party Tracking Cookies
On April 22, 2025, Google announced it would abandon plans to remove third-party cookies from Chrome, a decision that has stirred debate.
These cookies are used by websites and advertisers to track users’ online behavior, allowing them to serve up personalized ads.
Google’s original plan had been to replace cookies with a new system that would allow users to opt-out of tracking with a simple ‘don’t track me’ option.
However, the idea was scrapped after concerns from the online advertising industry, which feared the changes would reduce their ad revenues.
Why Tracking Cookies Are a Privacy Concern
While tracking cookies are not inherently harmful, they pose significant privacy risks.
They can collect a wide range of data on a user’s online activity, including what sites they visit, what products they look at, and even what they search for.
This information is often shared with advertisers, data brokers, and other third parties who use it to create detailed profiles of users.
While this data might not include sensitive details like bank account numbers, it can include information such as the name of your bank or when you accessed your online banking portal.
For iPhone users who continue using Chrome, their digital footprint will continue to be tracked unless they manually clear their cookies or switch to Chrome’s Incognito Mode.
The potential for this data to be compromised or sold to third parties has led Apple to highlight the risks and promote their own browser, Safari, as a more privacy-conscious alternative.
Apple’s Push for Privacy with Safari
In a recent promotional video titled “Flock,” Apple drew attention to its Safari browser, positioning it as a safer option for users concerned about their privacy.
In the video, iPhone users try to escape a relentless barrage of surveillance cameras, only to find safety when they choose Safari as their browser.
The video seems like a direct response to Google’s previous attempt at creating a tracking solution known as FLoC (Federated Learning of Cohorts), which Google ultimately scrapped.
Apple’s Safari browser already offers several privacy-focused features, such as blocking third-party tracking by default.
However, iPhone users have other options besides Safari. Alternatives like Mozilla’s Firefox, which blocks third-party cookies by default with its “Enhanced Tracking Protection,” and privacy-focused search engine DuckDuckGo, are also gaining traction among users who prioritize their digital security.
The Digital Risks Beyond Cookies
Despite Google’s ongoing claims to protect user privacy, concerns about data security remain.
If hackers manage to breach ad networks or data brokers that buy user data from Google, they could potentially steal sensitive personal information, including search history, location data, and even banking details.
With Google generating billions in advertising revenue from user data, the stakes for privacy protection are incredibly high.
What Google Says About User Privacy
Google has repeatedly stated its commitment to user privacy. In a statement issued to DailyMail.com, a Google spokesperson emphasized the company’s goal to keep data “safe by default” and to provide users with control over when and how their data is used.
However, Google’s decision to continue using third-party cookies despite privacy concerns raises questions about how much control users truly have over their data.
As Google maintains its stance on cookies, users are left grappling with the question of how to protect their personal information in an increasingly connected world.
Many are turning to alternative browsers like Firefox, DuckDuckGo, and Avast Secure, which provide stronger privacy protections.
Yet, as the debate over online privacy continues to unfold, it’s clear that the digital landscape is evolving—potentially at the expense of user privacy.
Alternative Browsers and Privacy Solutions
For iPhone users looking for more privacy, browsers like Firefox and DuckDuckGo offer features designed to shield users from third-party tracking.
Firefox’s “Enhanced Tracking Protection” blocks cookies by default, while DuckDuckGo gives users more control over their cookie consent.
Avast Secure, a paid option, includes built-in ad blocking and anti-phishing tools for additional protection.
Ultimately, the choice of browser—and how much personal data you’re willing to trade for convenience—will likely depend on how seriously you take your online privacy.
As for Google, it seems they are sticking to their current system, despite the privacy concerns raised by users and competitors like Apple.