Opera has launched an automatic VPN feature for its built-in browser VPN, activating it when users connect to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. The update is now available in the US and France, with more regions to follow.
TL;DR
- Opera's built-in VPN now auto-activates on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks in the US and France.
- The feature aims to enhance security for users by automatically protecting their connections.
- Opera's VPN has been free, account-free, and without bandwidth limits since 2016.
What happened
Opera has introduced a new feature to its built-in browser VPN that automatically activates the VPN when users connect to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. This update is part of the company's tenth-anniversary celebration of its free VPN service.
The auto-activation feature is currently available in France and the United States, with plans to expand to additional regions in the future. Users can enable the feature by toggling on 'Always use VPN on Public WiFi' in the browser settings under Settings, VPN.
Opera's built-in VPN has been free, account-free, and without bandwidth limits since 2016. The company's Santiago Benavides García emphasized that Opera believes users should be in control of their web experience.
Why it matters
This update addresses the security vulnerabilities of public Wi-Fi networks, which often carry additional risks. By automatically activating the VPN, Opera aims to enhance security for users who may forget to turn on the VPN manually.
For developers and startups, this feature highlights the importance of integrating security measures into products to protect user data. It also sets a precedent for other browsers to follow suit in enhancing their security features.
Investors may see this as a strategic move by Opera to maintain its competitive edge in the browser market by continuously improving its security and privacy offerings.
Key facts
- Opera's built-in VPN now auto-activates on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks in the US and France.
- The feature is enabled through a one-time activation in the browser settings.
- Opera's VPN has been free, account-free, and without bandwidth limits since 2016.
- The service is backed by a 2024 third-party audit from Deloitte confirming its strict no-log policy.
- A 2022 code evaluation by cybersecurity firm Cure53 has also been conducted.
- The auto-activation feature will expand to additional regions in the future.
Context
Opera's built-in VPN has been a notable feature since its introduction in 2016, setting it apart from other browsers. The company's commitment to user privacy and security is evident in its continuous updates and improvements to the VPN service.
This update comes at a time when cybersecurity threats are on the rise, making it crucial for users to protect their data when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. Opera's auto-activation feature addresses this need by providing an additional layer of security.
As more browsers integrate VPN services, Opera's long-standing commitment to a free, account-free, and bandwidth-unlimited VPN service remains a significant differentiator in the market.