Opera adds AI-powered widget to iOS browser

Opera has released a major iOS update featuring new AI-focused widgets and expanded access to its AI assistant Aria for iPhone and iPad users.

What’s new: Opera’s latest iOS browser update introduces customizable Home Screen widgets and makes its AI assistant Aria available to all users, even without signing in.

• New widgets provide one-tap access to key features including Private Mode browsing and Aria AI interactions
• Long-press functionality on widgets reveals additional shortcuts
• The update removes the login requirement for using Aria AI features

AI capabilities and limitations: Aria offers both text and voice-based interactions while incorporating advanced image generation capabilities.

• Users can interact with Aria through text or voice commands for web searches and queries
• Image generation is powered by Google’s Imagen 3 Fast model
• Non-registered users can generate up to 5 images daily
• Registered users receive an increased limit of 30 images per day

User growth metrics: Opera’s iOS browser has experienced substantial growth in recent months.

• New user adoption increased by 33% in the European Union between September and November 2024
• Global user growth reached 31% during the same period

Technical requirements: The updated Opera browser maintains broad compatibility with Apple devices.

• Available for free download on the App Store
• Compatible with iOS 14 and later versions
• Supports both iPhone and iPad devices

Market implications: Opera’s strategic move to expand AI accessibility and enhance widget functionality positions the browser to compete more effectively in the mobile browser market.

• The removal of login requirements for AI features could lower barriers to entry for new users
• Widget implementation aligns with growing user demand for quick-access tools and AI integration
• These developments suggest Opera is prioritizing user experience and AI functionality to differentiate itself from competitors in the crowded browser market