Global browser innovator, Opera, has announced a privacy enhancement to Opera Mini with the introduction of Locked Mode, which enables PIN-protected browsing, further boosting privacy protections for users.
Locked Mode allows users to set a PIN that is independent of their device’s main lock code. This PIN secures tabs, browsing history, and stored data, giving users greater control over their mobile browsing experience. With Locked Mode, users can share their phones with family and friends while ensuring that their data and browsing history remain private and accessible only to them. A simple switch lets users toggle between regular browsing and Locked Mode.
EVP of Mobile at Opera, Jørgen Arnesen, explained, “Opera Mini’s new PIN-Locked Browsing and Private Downloads redefine how users experience the web on shared devices, ensuring that personal information remains personal. By focusing on what users need most – privacy and security – Opera Mini is setting new standards in mobile browsing.” He added, “This commitment is transforming user interactions on shared devices, building a foundation of trust and reliability that stands at the forefront of the mobile industry.”
When activating Locked Mode for the first time, Opera Mini users will be prompted to set a unique PIN that differs from their device PIN. This enhances control over privacy, especially for users who frequently share an unlocked device with friends and family. Once Locked Mode is activated, all new tabs opened and data entered – such as URLs and search queries – are encrypted. These tabs and data are only visible when Locked Mode is active and unlocked with the correct PIN.
Additionally, browsing history within Locked Mode will remain inaccessible from the standard browsing mode, ensuring that any sites visited or searches made are kept private and visible only when Locked Mode is re-entered. Users can activate Locked Mode from the O-Menu or through the tab switcher view in Opera Mini, allowing for an easy switch between standard and secure browsing modes.
Opera’s move addresses the needs of 94 percent of mobile users who have requested increased password protection features, particularly when sharing devices with family or friends. Brand surveys by the company in markets such as Nigeria and Kenya showed privacy as the primary factor driving browser selection, with more than 90 percent of users citing it as crucial.
