I don't think we are disagreeing here. They need that consent, and rightly so, in order to do those things with your data. Removing the popups is just not conse

I don't think we are disagreeing here. They need that consent, and rightly so, in order to do those things with your data. Removing the popups is just not consenting. You implicitly consent for some basic things - if you order a widget then you don't need to sign a disclaimer saying they can use your address for posting it to you. You need explicit consent to go outside of that, just like regular social interactions. I don't ask permission to remember your name and address if you've asked me to pick you up, I should ask permission before signing you up for a mailing list using that info. The popups are because they're trying to step hugely outside of normal interactions.