Opera 8 For Linux Goes Beta

Opera Software has followed up its 8.0 Windows preview with a beta version of its next Web browser for Linux platforms. Opera 8 for Linux offers similar features touted in its Microsoft brethren, including new usability tools and improved RSS, but leaves out the company's built-in speech technology.

As part of an effort to simplify the user interface of its Web browser, Opera has added a new Start Bar that provides quick access to main features. And to save users from losing work, a trash can remembers closed windows and blocked pop-ups.

But changes in the 8.0 release, which is slated for a final debut early this year, go beyond just the interface, Opera says.

"A browser is much more than what meets the eye, and to maximize speed, security, and page handling, Opera's Core and supporting code has undergone dramatic improvements based on the strict efficiency requirements brought in from the mobile phone market where Opera is a leading player," says Christen Krogh, Opera Software's Vice President of Engineering.

Opera Software's new voice-enabled controls are lacking from the Linux release, however. Windows users can browse the Web with spoken words such as, "Opera next link" and "Opera back." "Opera speak" commands the browser to read Web content or e-mails aloud. Opera plans to eventually integrate its speech technology into online shopping and booking systems.

While the company says it has not yet chosen a name for its next-generation Web browser, Opera 8.0 for Linux Beta 1 is available for download via FileForum.