A developer version of any given piece of software is typically aimed at those willing to test features, find bugs, and preview new capabilities. Developer versions aren’t typically as stable as regular releases and can be prone to crashing. Developer releases are often updated more regularly than standard releases.
So, why would I ever recommend a developer version of any piece of software?
Every once in a while, a developer version is so good I can’t help myself.
Also: I tested Opera’s new Gemini-powered AI capabilities and came away impressed
That being said, I will preface this by saying if you prefer stability over new features, stick with the regular releases; otherwise, read on, MacDuff.
I’ve been using Opera Developer for a long time now and have had very few issues. Although the visible difference between Opera and Opera Developer is subtle, there are differences that make this version stand out.
Let’s discover, shall we?
1. Theming
A few releases ago, the team behind Opera released a new theming feature that really caught my eye. Opera was already my default browser on my daily OS, Linux, but the customizable theming was like a breath of fresh air. I’ve been accustomed to theming on the likes of Firefox, and even the older Opera versions allowed you to select from a handful of themes (most of which were pretty bland). But then the developers decided to kick things up a notch or two and release what I believe is the best theming feature on the market.
The difference between theming on Opera and Opera Developer is that the Developer edition gives you a larger Theme Gallery from which to choose. Instead of just the Classic, Aurora, and Midsommar themes, you get Interstellar, Metamorphic, Fjord, and Christmas Lights. Select your theme, and then you can adjust the color palette to create a theme that is uniquely yours. No other browser’s theming comes close.
2. Aria summaries
If you’re a fan of Opera’s Aria AI, you’ll find Developer gives you quick access to a feature that uses Aria to summarize web pages for you or explore the topic presented on the page. Here’s the thing: The regular version of Opera has this feature as well; the difference is that Developer gives you a quick access button to the right of the address bar, whereas with the standard version, you use the Ctrl+/ keyboard shortcut to open the tool.
With both versions, you also get both the Summaries and Explore options (by hitting Tab and selecting between the two), but for those who prefer using their mouse over their keyboards, Developer gets the win. Personally, I prefer keyboard shortcuts (because I find it more efficient than using the mouse), but most people are keen on using their mouse.
3. Opera Translate
The Developer version of Opera adds the Opera Translate feature, which will automatically translate sites in other languages to your default. You can also add languages to the selection, giving you more options than just the default, and you can even block certain languages from being translated. This feature comes in handy when you need to visit sites in other languages but want them translated to your default language. You might not use this feature much, but when you need it, you’ll be glad it’s there.
Also: 5 reasons why Opera is my favorite browser
Translate is enabled by default in Developer and can be configured within Settings > Advanced > Opera Translate.
4. Faster updates
Because this is a developer edition, it will receive updates more frequently than the standard version. These updates can include bug fixes, security patches, and new features. This version of the browser is typically updated once or twice a week and gives you a peek into what the developers are working on before they reach the stable version. One thing to keep in mind is that the frequency of updates could cause Developer to become unstable.
The silver lining is that when an issue is discovered, you won’t have to wait long until it’s fixed. For me, it’s always exciting to receive another Developer update because it could mean a new (cool) feature has arrived for me to check out.
5. Side by side
I use both the Stable and Developer versions of Opera and often run them side by side. This is a great way to use different accounts for the same site or to be able to “eat my cake and have it too.” I can run Stable for everyday purposes and have Developer open to not only get a glimpse of what’s to come but also to use it for situations when I’m not as concerned that it could crash on me.
For those who are concerned about stability, I’ve found Opera Developer to be as reliable as the Stable version. Is it as stable? No. Do I trust it? Yes. I’ve been using Opera Developer for a long time, and the only issue I’ve had with it is when, after an upgrade, I have to deal with ffmpeg issues not playing certain videos on Linux. It’s a fairly simple fix (one that the developers have resolved with the standard version), but it can get frustrating. Even so, I really enjoy Opera Developer. The theming is the best on the market, and the peek into upcoming features is worth having alongside the standard version.
Also: I replaced Google Search with Opera’s Aria AI feature and I don’t miss the former one bit
If Opera Developer sounds intriguing to you, download a version for your operating system, install it, and enjoy.