Opera Android usage jumps 66 percent in UK

Opera reported that its Android monthly active users jumped 66% in the UK and 40% in the US year over year during the second quarter of 2026, according to the company. The browser maker credits the growth to features that aren’t available out of the box in Chrome, including a free unlimited VPN, a built-in ad blocker, and integrated AI tools. It has not disclosed specific user numbers, only the percentage gains compared to the prior year.

What Opera Offers That Chrome Doesn’t

Opera attributes its growth to features that come pre-installed rather than requiring extensions or separate apps. The browser includes built-in AI tools such as Aria, a football hub for tracking World Cup stats and match details, and cross-device syncing with the Opera desktop version.

Chrome on Android does not include a VPN, ad blocker, or football hub as native features. Users who want those capabilities on Chrome typically need to install separate apps or extensions, which isn’t straightforward on mobile.

DMA-Driven Growth and Chrome’s Response

It has emphasized that its European growth driven by the DMA goes beyond initial sign-ups. Users who try Opera after seeing it on the choice screen tend to keep using it, indicating that the alternative browsers offer features that encourage continued engagement beyond the first trial.

Google has responded by adding new features to Chrome on Android. These include Gemini AI features rolling out to more countries, a back button in the top menu introduced with Chrome 150, significant performance improvements described as an overhaul beneath the hood, and various tablet enhancements. Despite these updates, Chrome’s default setup still lacks a built-in VPN and ad blocking, which Opera provides out of the box.

What Android Users Should Consider

Other browsers worth comparing include Brave, which offers ad and tracker blocking along with cryptocurrency rewards; DuckDuckGo, known for its privacy focus and recent YouTube ad blocking on iOS, Mac, and Windows; Firefox, which uses its own Gecko engine and supports extensions; and Vivaldi, noted for its highly customizable interface.