Opera makes its ad-blocker on Android more powerful with focus on improved efficiency, privacy, and customizability

Oslo, Norway - 11th December 2024 - Opera is improving its built-in Ad Blocker on Android, offering greater privacy and control across three new modes. The revamped Ad Blocker addresses the growing complexity of online advertising, allowing users to navigate the web faster, with fewer intrusive ads and improved security. As a result, Opera for Android's native Ad Blocker is now faster, more powerful and better-performing.

Improved ad blocking with three new modes

Designed to simplify browsing by eliminating intrusive ads, Opera's built-in Ad Blocker has been one of the most popular features since its introduction. With the new version of Opera for Android (86), the ad blocker has been enhanced to include three distinct modes that cater to varying user preferences and browsing habits.

Balanced Mode as the improved version of the free built-in Ad Blocker available since 2016. This update enhances browsing by offering greater control and stronger protection against distractions. Balanced Mode offers a standard approach to ad blocking, removing common ads while ensuring that websites function as intended. This mode is ideal for activities like online shopping or banking, where site compatibility is crucial.

Enhanced Mode, with an extra built-in level of privacy by the leading ad blocker in the world - uBlock Origin and AdGuard, provides a more robust defense against intrusive ads. It delivers the strongest ad-blocking experience available in Opera for Android, although it may affect the compatibility of some sites. This mode is perfect for users who want the highest level of protection against unwanted advertisements. A long-time presence in the ad blocking space, uBlock Origin is known for its efficiency in terms of resource usage, efficiency, and transparency in its code and operations.

Custom Mode allows users to choose from six curated block lists - including EasyList, uBlock, AdGuard, Malware Blocks, NoCoin, and Adblock Mobile Ads - along with specialized regional options. This helps users fine-tune their browsing experience to suit their needs.

These settings can be configured via Settings > Ad Blocking > Ad Blocking Mode, ensuring flexibility and control over how ads are handled during browsing sessions. Read more about the Opera ad blocker here.

Blocking ads offers more than just a cleaner browsing experience - it brings several practical benefits that enhance usability and security:

• Faster page loads & reduced data usage: Ads with heavy graphics or auto-play videos can slow down websites, and so blocking them results in quicker load times. By eliminating ads, users additionally save on data, making ad blocking particularly valuable for those on limited plans.
• Less clutter & better focus: Blocking intrusive ads removes unnecessary elements like pop-ups and banners, creating a cleaner, more enjoyable browsing environment. With distractions minimized, users can concentrate on the content they care about, whether it's reading, shopping, or streaming.
• Improved privacy & security: Opera's Ad Blocker prevents tracking by advertisers, helping users maintain control over their digital footprint. Blocking malicious ads reduces exposure to malware, phishing attempts, and other online threats.

Enhanced download management and app icon personalization

The new version of Opera for Android also includes an updated download manager. Users can now rename files before or after downloading and set limits on concurrent downloads. Also, a permission setting called "Ask before downloading" gives users the ability to approve or decline downloads before they start. These features are accessible under download settings, providing a streamlined experience for everyday file management.

Opera for Android also introduces six new app icons, including five inspired by Opera One's award-winning design. Users can select their preferred icon to give their browser a unique look, with an exclusive dark blue icon available when Opera is set as the default browser.

Download Opera for Android to enjoy the new features!