Back in March, Opera submitted their Opera Mini web browser iPhone application to Apple for approval. No one knew whether Apple would approve the application, as in the past when an application has had similar functionality to features built into the iPhone, Apple had turned those applications down.
It looks like Apple may be changing its stance on this, as the Opera Mini Web Browser iPhone application has been approved and it is now available as a free download from iTunes.
Why Opera Mini Was Approved
One of the reasons it was probably approved is because it doesn’t actually render web pages on the device itself. Instead, this task is done by Opera’s own servers. The servers process the web pages and then send a compressed markup language called ODML to the Opera Mini app. This makes it more like a PDF reader than a traditional web browser in technical terms. However, when using it, it works just like a web browser, providing a seamless experience for the user.
This server-side rendering has several advantages. First, it significantly reduces the amount of data that needs to be transferred to the device, which can be particularly beneficial for users with limited data plans or those in areas with slow internet connections. Second, it can speed up the browsing experience because the heavy lifting of rendering web pages is done on powerful servers rather than on the relatively limited hardware of the iPhone.
Performance and User Experience
We have just had a brief play with the Opera Mini iPhone App, and I have to admit it is pretty fast, a lot faster than the built-in Safari browser on the iPhone. This speed can be attributed to the server-side rendering and the compressed data that is sent to the device. However, it’s worth noting that some websites don’t look as good in Opera Mini as they do in Safari. This is likely due to the compression and the way the pages are rendered.
Despite this minor drawback, the speed and efficiency of Opera Mini make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize performance over perfect visual fidelity. For example, if you’re frequently on the go and need to quickly look up information or check your email, the faster load times can be a significant advantage.
Another interesting feature of Opera Mini is its ability to save web pages for offline viewing. This can be incredibly useful for users who travel frequently and may not always have access to a reliable internet connection. By saving important web pages, you can ensure that you have access to the information you need, even when you’re offline.
You can download the Opera Mini Web Browser iPhone application free from iTunes. This approval by Apple marks a significant shift in their approach to third-party applications that offer similar functionalities to their built-in apps. It opens the door for more innovation and competition, which can only benefit the end-users.
The approval of the Opera Mini web browser for the iPhone is a noteworthy development in the mobile app ecosystem. It not only provides users with a faster browsing alternative but also demonstrates Apple’s willingness to embrace third-party solutions that enhance the user experience. Whether you’re looking to save on data usage, speed up your browsing, or simply try something new, Opera Mini is definitely worth a download.
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