Microsoft tests new cookie management features

REDMOND, Washington (Reuters) -- Microsoft Corp. said Thursday it plans to test new "cookie" management features for its Internet Explorer with the aim of helping users protect their privacy on the Internet.

Cookies are small pieces of information that can be placed onto the hard drive of a visitor to a Web site and can be used to track the user's activities.

The world's No. 1 personal computer software maker said in a statement the new features will provide more selective prompts, or alerts, when cookies arrive, as well as an easier way to manage and delete cookies. The features also aim to give consumers a better understanding of the different types of cookies used and where they come from.

The new update is being released to about 2,000 Windows initial testers, including consumers and corporate users of Internet Explorer version 5.5 technologies. After feedback from these testers, Microsoft plans to release an initial, beta-stage test to the public within four weeks.

Microsoft's beta test of the new features comes at a time where privacy advocates are fighting to ensure Internet users' personal data is protected. Many Internet companies use cookies to develop personalized content and target consumers more effectively.

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