Opera announces beta 3 release of Opera 10 browser – ready for heavy work on the Web

Oslo, Norway — August 13, 2009

After more than 10 million test runs and ample user feedback, Opera 10 is now available in its third beta version from http://www.opera.com/next/. Performance and stability were prioritized in beta 3, with improvements to Opera Turbo, a compression tool for faster surfing, and refinements to the overall look and feel of the previous Opera 10 betas.

What is new in beta 3?

Tab tweaks: Multiple Opera users who tested the previous betas shared their preferences for more visual tab options. Opera has responded in beta 3 by offering options for tab placement. Now users can view their visual thumbnail tabs on the right or left side of the screen, in addition to placement options on the top or bottom. Visual Tabs are resizable and the thumbnail view is optional.
Eyes on the UI: Designer Jon Hicks continues his renovation of the user interface (UI) by implementing several new tweaks designed to make using Opera even more efficient.
Multilingual: With a whopping total of 38 languages, Opera’s beta 3 aims to make it easier for users around the world to feel more at home while online.
Crash prevention: Opera’s integrated crash logger has made beta 3 a rock-solid ride.
Even more Turbo: Opera Turbo has been further refined for increased speed when browsing over slow network connections.

What about Opera Unite?

Opera recently released an alpha preview of its new inter-browser communication technology, Opera Unite. Opera Unite will not be included in beta 3 as it remains in its alpha development stage. We continue working on it and will release the beta version of Opera Unite as soon as possible. Check out the new, updated Opera Unite FAQ.

Our point of view

“For us, it is a resounding success when more than one million people use your beta and are excited enough to give us so much actionable feedback,” said Jon von Tetzchner, CEO, Opera Software. “This third beta comes after a lot of careful improvements. We have never released such a solid piece of technology that not only runs seamlessly, but is so nice to look at as well. I am proud of this release, and I hope that the Web-using world will benefit from a browser that is truly ready to do some heavy lifting.”

Important Links

Follow the development of Opera 10.
Follow the development of Opera Unite.
Much goes in to making a beta. See our work in progress by checking out the full changelog.

About Opera Software ASA

The worldwide World Wide Web — any device, any platform, any bandwidth, absolutely anywhere in the world. Opera Software was founded in 1994, based on the idea that access to the Web should be a universal right. 220 million people (and counting) use the Opera web browsers for computers, mobile phones, TVs and other connected devices. Opera also delivers tools, distribution, engagement, monetization and market insights to developers, publishers and brands around the world. We are passionate about breaking down barriers, so everyone can share in the power of the Internet. Our vision of one Web for all remains at the heart of what we do, because we believe that participation changes everything. Opera Software ASA is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol OPERA. Learn more about Opera at www.opera.com.