The Opera browser’s new mobile version for iPhone, dubbed Opera One for iOS, integrates artificial intelligence features like image generation and voice input, a free VPN for private browsing and other elements to offer a fresh alternative to pre-installed browsers on Apple devices like Safari, the company said Tuesday.
“Our research shows mobile phone users are six times more likely to be happy than not, after switching away from their system’s default browser,” said Jona Bolin, product manager at Opera. “So with Opera One for iOS, we want to further raise the bar and deliver a better browsing experience versus what users will find pre-installed.”
Opera One browser for iOS
Coming about a year after Opera One for desktop and its subsequent addition of Aria AI, Opera’s new mobile release arrives amid increased competition in the iOS browser market. Following recent regulatory changes in the EU, Opera has seen a 63% growth in new users across European Union countries, the company said. And it said its research suggests mobile users are more likely to be satisfied after switching from their default browser, like Apple’s Safari on iPhone, which brings its own updates in iOS 18.
New features
Photo: Opera
So the new browser boasts several features designed to appeal to iOS users:
- Redesigned interface. Opera One adopts a full-screen mobile interface with simplified user commands. It looks more like desktop Opera.
- Flexible navigation. Users can choose between three navigation styles: Standard Navigation, Fast Action Button and the new Bottom Search. The latter moves the search bar to the bottom of the screen for easier one-handed use.
- Enhanced search functionality. The browser offers predictive search suggestions and a “swipe to search” feature familiar to iOS users.
- Adaptive design. Opera One’s interface dynamically adjusts to maximize screen space. Elements like the top and bottom bars disappear during scrolling. The browser also matches its color scheme to the current webpage for a more immersive experience.
- AI integration. The browser includes Aria, a built-in AI assistant capable of information retrieval, text generation, and even image creation using Google’s Imagen2 model. Aria now supports voice input for hands-free queries.
- Privacy features. Opera One comes with a built-in ad blocker and free VPN for enhanced security and privacy.
- Customizable start page. The traditional newsfeed has been replaced with a customizable carousel featuring news, live scores and browser tips.
Photo: Opera
So, for iPhone users looking to explore alternatives to Safari, Opera One for iOS is now available for download from the App Store. Opera’s latest offering could present an intriguing option for those seeking a blend of AI capabilities, privacy features and a fresh user interface. See the video below for a look at the new browser.
Where to download: App Store
Source: Opera
