What is wait_for_update in Google Consent Mode?

wait_for_update is a Consent Mode parameter that gives an asynchronously loaded consent management platform (CMP) a limited amount of time to update the consent state before Google tags proceed with their behavior. The value is specified in milliseconds.

It can be useful when the initial consent defaults are set before the CMP finishes loading or retrieves a visitor’s saved consent choice. During the configured waiting period, Google tags can wait for the CMP to provide an updated consent state.

Once the waiting period expires, tags proceed based on the consent state available at that time.

wait_for_update does not grant consent, replace appropriate default consent settings, or wait indefinitely for the visitor to interact with the banner. Choose a duration appropriate for how quickly your CMP can load and provide the visitor’s consent state rather than treating it as a fixed consent deadline.