Opera has announced the release of Opera One R2 in developer beta, introducing a range of new features and design elements. One of the notable updates is the inclusion of new multimedia controls, which can now be displayed in a floating window, similar to the picture-in-picture video module. This change allows for greater flexibility and customization, as the resizable floating controls will match the browser’s theme that users have set. The multimedia player includes various controls such as play/pause, next, previous, pop-out, and volume options.
In addition to the multimedia controls, Opera One R2 also brings new tab controls, including the marquee feature of a split tab window. This feature enables users to work on two web pages simultaneously, providing a convenient multitasking experience. While some other browsers have already incorporated this functionality, Opera’s implementation adds its own unique touch.
To enhance the overall user experience, Opera has introduced a new indicator in the form of an underscore to highlight recently closed tabs. These indicators, known as traces, appear as either light or dark based on the time that has passed since the tab was closed. This feature is particularly useful for users who tend to have a large number of tabs open at once.
Opera has also been experimenting with AI features, including its “Aria” assistant. The company has integrated AI-powered capabilities such as image and voice generation and image understanding into Opera One R2. These features were initially part of Opera’s experimental AI features program but are now being fully integrated into the browser.
One of the significant AI-related updates in Opera One R2 is the introduction of a page context mode. This feature allows users to ask Aria questions about a webpage, whether it’s finding specific information, translating content, or summarizing information. By leveraging AI technology, Opera aims to provide users with a more intelligent and intuitive browsing experience.
While currently in developer beta, Opera plans to release Opera One R2 to a wider user base later this year. This release will bring a fresh look and a range of new features, including enhanced multimedia controls, split tab functionality, and AI capabilities. With these updates, Opera continues to innovate and improve its browser, catering to the evolving needs of its users.
