With the news that China is not fulfilling its obligation to provide unfettered internet access to journalists, and the complicity of some IOC officials, yesterday, China has eased some of the restrictions, the New York Times reported.

Websites formerly blocked like those of the Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and Radio Free Asia are now accessible. Those of Falun Gong are still blocked, however.

"The Chinese government and the Chinese people have been working in real earnest to honor the commitments made to the international community," President Hu Jintao told reporters.

"The IOC Coordination Commission and BOCOG met last night and agreed. Internet use will be just like in any Olympics," IOC vice-president Gunilla Lindberg told Reuters.

Despite the move, some critics wondered how long until those sites will be blocked again and others are calling on China to completely take down its Great Firewall like it's supposed to.

In other Olympic news:
• Seven Russian athletes suspended for doping, five of which were heading for the Olympics.

• Greek sprinter threaten to sue the IOC if she's not allowed to compete.

• Smog not going away. Dirty air still persists.