Google is set to resolve the class-action lawsuit regarding Chrome’s incognito mode, ensuring that no significant changes will occur.

In 2020, a limited number of consumers initiated legal action against Google, filing a class-action lawsuit. The suit claimed that Chrome’s incognito mode inadequately safeguards users from internet tracking, alleging a violation of wiretap laws. The group sought unspecified damages in their legal proceedings against the company.

As anticipated, Google’s legal team attempted to have the lawsuit dismissed, but in August 2023, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers rejected their request. Recently, Google has opted to settle the lawsuit, as reported by Ars Technica. This entails the case not proceeding further, with Google avoiding any admission of wrongdoing and no required changes to the functionality of incognito mode.

The specific terms of the proposed settlement remain undisclosed.

The plaintiffs had accused Google of concealing the fact that Chrome’s incognito mode does not prevent user activity tracking. They argued that Google can monitor private browsing activity and link it to user profiles associated with that Chrome installation.

Google contended that the splash screen displayed when opening an incognito window adequately explains the service and protects the company from the accusations in the lawsuit. However, the judge disagreed. It is likely that Google perceived the case as potentially more costly and damaging to its public relations than a settlement, leading to the decision to settle.

Google and the plaintiffs are expected to present the settlement terms to the court by the end of January 2024, with final approval anticipated by the end of February.