Opera Unveils Neon: The AI-Powered Browser Revolutionizing Web Interaction
In a bold move to redefine browsing, Norwegian tech giant Opera has launched Neon, its first fully “agentic” browser infused with artificial intelligence.
Announced on Tuesday, Neon transcends traditional web viewing by acting as an autonomous digital assistant capable of executing tasks directly within the browser environment.
This isn’t just about faster searches—Neon can generate and run code on webpages, compare data across multiple sites, and automate repetitive actions like form-filling or reservations, all while prioritizing user privacy through on-device processing.
At the heart of Neon’s appeal is its productivity focus, positioning it as a game-changer for professionals and heavy internet users.
Key features include three core pillars: Chat, for conversational summaries and analysis akin to a smart chatbot; Do, which lets the AI navigate sites, click links, and handle chores independently; and Make, powered by Opera’s European-hosted “cloud computer” that breaks down complex jobs—like drafting a simple website, prototyping a game, or compiling a research report—into manageable steps executed in the background, even offline.
Additional tools like Cards (pre-built templates for common queries) and Tasks (dedicated workspaces for multi-source projects) allow users to oversee, edit, or halt AI actions at any moment, ensuring control without compromise.
The launch catapults Opera into a fiercely competitive arena, where AI-driven browsers are proliferating. Rivals like The Browser Company’s Arc with its Dia agent, Perplexity AI’s Comet, and rumored OpenAI projects (including a Chromium-based browser with an “Operator” for seamless shopping and payments) are vying for dominance in the emerging “agentic web”—a vision of the internet where software agents proactively assist rather than passively display.
Opera, with over 300 million users since its 1995 founding, claims a two-year head start, building on an early prototype called Browser Operator released in March.
By keeping most operations local and data in Europe—amid tightening privacy regulations—Neon sidesteps the data-leak risks of cloud-heavy alternatives, a savvy bet for privacy-conscious markets.
For users, Neon’s subscription model promises streamlined workflows, potentially slashing hours spent on mundane tasks and democratizing web creation for non-coders.
Businesses could see boosted efficiency in research, automation, and content generation, fostering innovation without steep learning curves.
As Opera’s stock edges up amid its AI pivot, this launch signals a shift: browsers are evolving from windows to workshops, empowering individuals and enterprises alike.
With agentic tech flooding the space, Neon’s privacy edge and mature features could help Opera capture a loyal slice of the market, making the web feel less like a maze and more like a collaborator.
FAQ
What is Opera Neon and how does it differ from regular browsers?
Opera Neon is an AI-powered browser that acts as an autonomous agent, capable of running code, automating tasks like form-filling, and creating content directly in the browser—unlike standard browsers that only display pages.
Is Opera Neon safe for privacy, and who is it best for?
Yes, it processes most tasks on-device to keep data local, appealing to professionals in regulated regions like Europe. It’s ideal for frequent users seeking productivity boosts in research, automation, and web development.
