Opera is a web browser developed by Opera Software, a Norwegian company. It was first released in 1996 and has since become one of the most popular web browsers in the world.
Opera is known for its user-friendly interface, fast page loading speeds, and innovative features. Some of its key features include:
Tabbed browsing: Opera was the first web browser to introduce tabbed browsing, which allows users to open multiple web pages in a single window.
Speed Dial: Opera's Speed Dial feature allows users to set their favorite websites as shortcuts on their browser's homepage, making it easy to access them quickly.
Built-in ad-blocker: Opera has a built-in ad-blocker that helps to block unwanted ads and improve page loading speeds.
Built-in VPN: Opera offers a built-in VPN service that allows users to browse the Internet securely and anonymously.
Extensions: Opera has a wide range of extensions available, which can enhance the browser's functionality and add new features.
Opera is available for desktop computers, laptops, and mobile devices, and it supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
1. Opera Browser in general:
Opera Browser is a multi-platform web browser developed by Opera Software. It's available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Here are some key things to know about it:
- History: One of the oldest desktop web browsers still actively developed, launched in 1995. Originally commercial, it became free in 2009.
- Features: Known for its innovative features, including built-in ad blocker, VPN, tab-tiling, and integrated messengers. Focuses on speed, privacy, and customization.
- Versions: Offers different versions like Opera GX for gamers and Opera Mini for data-saving browsing on mobile devices.
2. Specific Opera browser versions:
- Opera One: Latest version with browser AI, tab islands, and a modular design.
- Opera GX: Browser specially designed for gamers, with features like CPU, RAM and etwork limiters, and integration with Twitch and Discord.
History
The history of the Opera web browser is a fascinating narrative of innovation, resilience, and adaptation. Here's a peek, sans images:
Early Sparks (1994-1996):
- 1994: The journey) begins in Norway, with Jon Stephenson von Tetzchner and Geir Ivarsøy developing Opera as a research project at Telenor, the national telecommunications company.
- 1995: Opera Software AS is founded, and the first publicly available version, Opera 2.10, is released for Windows 95.
Building Momentum (1997-2005):
- 1998: Development starts for mobile device platforms, paving the way for Opera Mini, a data-saving pioneer.
- 2000: Opera 4.0 introduces a new cross-platform core, enabling versions for various operating systems.
- 2003: "Mail & News" and "Turbo" features debut, boosting email handling and browsing speed, respectively.
Facing Challenges and Triumphs (2006-2014):
- 2006: Opera becomes free and open-source, marking a significant shift in its business model.
- 2009: Google Chrome's rise presents new competition, necessitating adaptation and innovation.
- 2012: Opera acquires Skyfire Labs, gaining expertise in mobile browsing optimization.
Reinvention and Expansion (2015-present):
- 2016: Opera becomes the first major browser to integrate a built-in VPN for enhanced privacy.
- 2019: Opera GX launches, catering specifically to gamers with resource management tools and Twitch integration.
- 2023: Opera continues to refine its features, focusing on speed, privacy, and user customization. The latest version, Opera One, introduces major changes like browser AI and a modular design.
Beyond Browsing:
- Opera extends its reach beyond web browsing with features like integrated messengers and news aggregation.
- The company actively invests in AI and VR technologies, exploring the future of web browsing and user experience.