Microsoft unveils private browsing feature for IE8

26/08/2008

Those involved in website design may be interested to read that Microsoft has announced details of a new private browsing capability for the next version of Internet Explorer (IE).

IE8 will allow users to turn on the InPrivate mode to prevent the browser from storing information such as cookies, passwords, form data, typed URLs and search box queries.

This feature also means that new history entries will not be made while new temporary internet files will also be deleted after the InPrivate session has ended.

Microsoft program manager Andy Zeigler said the new mode will be particularly useful for those with shared computers, as it will help users to carry out tasks such as buy surprise gifts without the other PC user being able to find out.

It could also be beneficial for those browsing the web in internet cafes, he noted.

"With respect to privacy, IE8 gives users more choice about controlling what information they keep and exchange," Mr Zeigler remarked in a blog post.

IE8 is currently available in beta format for web developers and designers.