“Unveiling Opera 2024: A Deep Dive into Features, Advancements, and Market Dynamics”

Introduction

Opera Statistics: Opera is a web browser developed by a company known as Opera. The most recent version of the browser is constructed on Chromium. It is compatible with various platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS (utilizing Safari’s WebKit engine). Additionally, Opera offers two mobile variants, Opera Mobile and Opera Mini, which are still actively utilized. Furthermore, Opera has an application called Opera News, which features an AI-driven search engine named Aria.

Initially launched on Monday, April 10, 1995, Opera is one of the longest-running desktop browsers. For the first decade, it was paid software and utilized its exclusive layout engine known as Presto. This article will delve deeper into Opera Statistics.

Editor’s Choice

• According to the latest statistics, Opera boasts nearly 350 million users globally.
• As of 2023, Opera captured around 2.26% of the worldwide browser market. It is accessible on macOS, Linux, and Windows platforms.
• In 2022, Opera represented 3.0% of the web browser market distribution.
• Opera Statistics indicated that the browser encompasses features that diminish the need for additional extensions.
• There are three versions of Opera designed for mobile devices: Opera, Opera Mini, and Opera Touch.
• Forecasts suggest that the global Internet Browsers Market will expand from USD 201.9 billion in 2022 to USD 998.1 billion by 2032.
• During the latter half of 2023, the majority of Opera’s traffic was direct.
• YouTube stands as the primary source of referrals to Opera, accounting for 72.65%.
• Opera is utilized more on desktop systems compared to mobile devices. The United States, Brazil, and India hold the highest number of users, with approximately 5 million devices in operation.

Opera Features

#1. Usability and Accessibility

• Opera includes a bookmark bar along with a download manager. It also incorporates “Speed Dial,” enabling users to add an unlimited number of pages displayed as thumbnails on a new tab.
• Opera was among the pioneers to implement Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) back in 1998.

#2. Opera Turbo

• Opera Turbo, designed to accelerate browsing by compressing web pages (excluding HTTPS pages), has been discontinued for the desktop version but still exists in Opera Mini, the mobile browser.

#3. Privacy and Security

• Opera allows users to conveniently erase private information such as browsing history, cookies, cache, and passwords with a single click.
• When accessing a website, Opera displays a security badge in the address bar that provides details regarding the website’s security.
• It is equipped with built-in protection against fraud and malware, alerting users about dubious websites by comparing them against known phishing and malware databases.
• In 2016, Opera unveiled a complimentary VPN service for secure access to restricted websites and safeguarding on public WiFi.
• However, it was later revealed that the VPN functioned as a web proxy, securing only browser traffic rather than other applications on the device.

#4. Crypto-Wallet Support

• In 2018, Opera introduced an integrated cryptocurrency wallet, becoming the first browser to feature such functionality.
• Latter that year, it demonstrated how decentralized applications like Cryptokitties could operate on its Android browser.
• In March 2020, Opera enhanced its Android browser to support .crypto domains (IPFS), establishing itself as the first browser capable of direct access to a domain system outside the conventional DNS without requiring an add-on or plugin.
• This was achieved in collaboration with Unstoppable Domains. By 2021, both iOS and desktop versions of Opera supported IPFS.
• In January 2022, Opera launched its Crypto Browser in public beta, merging a non-custodial wallet with a browser for Web3 and blockchain-related services.
• By 2023, the Crypto Browser was retired, and its capabilities were integrated into the standard Opera and Opera GX browsers.

#5. AI Chatbot

• In 2023, Opera launched Aria, an AI chatbot powered by Opera’s Composer AI engine and connected to OpenAI’s GPT model.

Development Stages in Opera

• Opera Software follows a framework with three “streams” representing different stages of development.
• These streams can be downloaded and installed independently: “developer,” “beta,” and “stable.”
• New functionalities undergo initial testing in the developer version and may transition to the beta version depending on user feedback before achieving a full release.

(Reference: enterpriseappstoday.com)

• The developer stream is intended for early testing of new features. It is primarily aimed at developers, extension creators, and users eager to experiment with new tools before they are finalized.
• However, Opera Developer may not be ideal for routine browsing due to its potential instability and risk of crashing.
• This enables advanced users to explore features without impacting their primary browser experience. New iterations are frequently released, typically several times a week.
• The beta stream, formerly known as “Opera Next,” offers a more stable version that encompasses all available features.
• This version is released biweekly, allowing adequate time for testing and refinements prior to the final rollout.
• According to Opera Statistics, both developer and beta versions can be installed alongside the stable release without causing problems.
• Each version bears a distinctive icon, enabling users to differentiate them easily.

Browser Market Share Statistics

• Chrome remains the most extensively utilized browser, claiming a 65.16% share—nearly four times greater than its closest rival.
• In second place, Safari holds an 18.35% share. Despite being significantly smaller than Chrome, it remains considerably more popular than most other browsers.

(Source: browserstack.com)

• Edge ranks third, with a mere 5.19% share of the market.
• Firefox captures a 2.91% share, making it the fourth most frequently used browser, yet it is considerably less favored than Edge.
• Opera Statistics revealed that Samsung Internet and Opera have comparable shares, at 2.61% and 2.43%, respectively.

Opera Browser Market in India

(Source: statista.com)

• As of July 2024, Opera possessed roughly 3.4% of the browser market share in India. Throughout the previous year, Opera’s market share in the country has experienced a minor decline.

Opera Financial Statistics

• The year 2022 marked a successful financial period for Opera, generating $331.5 million in revenue, reflecting a 31.9% rise from $250.9 million in 2021.
• In addition to the $331.5 million in revenue, Opera also achieved a net profit of $15 million in 2022, a substantial recovery after incurring a loss of $43.1 million in 2021.
• This performance surpassed expectations and displayed robust growth into 2023.
• Opera announced a revenue growth of 21% in the second quarter of 2023, reaching $94.1 million when compared to the same period in 2022.
• The company anticipates total revenue of $390 million by the conclusion of 2023, which would be $58.5 million higher than its 2022 total of $331.5 million.
• Opera Statistics reported that the market valuation of Opera was $1.39 billion as of March 2024.

(Source: mspoweruser.com)

• As of March 2024, Opera’s market value stands at $1.39 billion. Despite significant fluctuations, the peak value in the last 5 years occurred on July 3, 2023, reaching $2.2 billion.
• The lowest valuation happened on October 17, 2022, when its market value dropped to merely $0.45 billion.
• Opera experienced its most substantial financial growth in the past 5 years during the fourth quarter of 2020, with an impressive 111.11% increase compared to the same quarter in 2019, following a 64% decrease in growth during Q4 of 2020.

Future of Opera Statistics

• In June 2023, Opera introduced an AI assistant named Aria for both its desktop and mobile browsers.
• Similar to Microsoft Edge’s Bing Chat, Aria enables users to interact with an AI bot powered by ChatGPT, enhancing their web searches.
• Aria can respond to inquiries and even generate content such as emails, tweets, and blog articles while concurrently browsing the web in real-time.
• Opera Statistics reported that Opera GX, the gaming version of the browser, launched a new feature called “Fake My History.”
• If the browser remains unused for two weeks, it automatically substitutes your history with fabricated, benign information.

(Source: researchgate.net)

• This feature is aimed at managing your digital footprint posthumously, but it can also be utilized if you are away from your computer and wish to maintain your browsing privacy from others.
• Opera GX has teamed up with ASUS ROG (Republic of Gamers) to develop a specialized version of the browser.
• This variant will be tailored for ASUS ROG products and will incorporate features like integration with ASUS Aura.
• Opera Statistics indicated that Opera’s earnings are projected to grow by 1.2% annually, with its revenue expected to rise by 13.7% each year.
• Additionally, earnings per share (EPS) are anticipated to increase by 4.6%. Over the next 3 years, investors may observe a return on equity of around 10.6%.

Opera Browser vs Chrome Browser Statistics

Selecting the appropriate web browser is essential for a seamless online experience. Opera and Chrome are among the most commonly utilized browsers, each presenting distinct features and benefits. Below is a comparison of Opera and Chrome, addressing fundamental aspects such as performance, features, security, privacy, user interface, and more.

#1. Performance

• Opera: Renowned for its speed and efficiency, Opera delivers swift startup times and fluid browsing.
• Chrome: Chrome is also optimized for speed, ensuring websites load rapidly. Both browsers provide a quick, seamless experience.

#2. Security

• Opera: Opera incorporates built-in ad and tracker blockers to prevent malicious advertisements and tracking scripts.
• Chrome: Chrome emphasizes security with features such as Safe Browsing, which alerts users about potentially unsafe sites. Chrome also automatically updates to resolve security vulnerabilities. Both browsers ensure user security through regular updates.

#3. Privacy

• Opera: Opera adheres to a no-log policy, meaning it refrains from collecting or selling user data.
• Chrome: Chrome provides incognito mode, enabling users to browse privately without saving their history or cookies. Both browsers allow users to manage privacy settings and cookies effectively.

#4. User Interface

• Opera: Provides a straightforward, clean design featuring Speed Dial, which allows easy access to favorite websites.
• Chrome: Boasts a minimalist design focused on maintaining a clear and simple browsing experience. Both browsers offer user-friendly interfaces.

#5. Compatibility

• Opera: Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, allowing use across various devices.
• Chrome: Also functions across a wide array of devices and operating systems, ensuring smooth browsing regardless of the platform. Both browsers support the majority of websites and web standards.

#6. Customization

• Opera: This enables users to establish personalized keyboard shortcuts for easier navigation.
• Chrome: Offers a wide selection of extensions and applications from the Chrome Web Store to enable users to add extra functionalities. Both browsers permit settings adjustments to align with individual preferences.

#7. Integration

• Opera: Integrates with social messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook Messenger for quick access.
• Chrome: Seamlessly connects with Google services like Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Calendar. Both browsers facilitate easy integration with other services.

#8. Innovation

• Opera: Recognized for pioneering features like Flow, which simplifies device synchronization.
• Chrome: Continually evolves with new additions such as tab grouping and performance enhancements. Both browsers are devoted to refining the browsing experience.

Comparison Table Opera vs Chrome Browser

Conclusion

Opera, recognized for its distinctiveness as a web browser, remains a viable alternative for numerous users today. It utilizes Google Chrome’s rendering technology, which performs effectively for nearly all websites. Additionally, Opera incorporates a Turbo mode that assists users in conserving data. Many individuals appreciate Opera’s complimentary VPN, integrated ad blocker, speed dial homepage, and video overlay functionalities, all of which enhance privacy and convenience.

Nevertheless, as Google Chrome’s popularity has surged, Opera’s market presence has diminished in recent years. Yet, statistics indicate that Opera continues to be an excellent option for those who prioritize their online privacy.

Joseph D’Souza

Joseph D’Souza established Coolest Gadgets in 2005 to share his passion for technology devices. It has since evolved into a well-known tech blog, recognized for thorough gadget reviews and company statistics. Joseph is dedicated to delivering clear, well-researched content, making technology accessible for all. Coolest Gadgets is a reliable source of tech news, cherished by both enthusiasts and newcomers.

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