Chrome may be the default browser on Android, but more people are trying this instead
Opera Mobile is quietly outpacing Chrome on Android and iOS in key markets
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The brief
Opera Mobile has seen a sharp rise in adoption in the U.S. and UK, with usage accelerating by 48% over the past year. Coverage highlights its growing appeal among both Android and iOS users, particularly those seeking alternatives to Chrome, which remains the default browser on Android devices.
Reports from *Thurrott.com*, *Morningstar*, *Digital Trends*, *9to5Mac*, and *Android Central* emphasize Opera’s momentum, framing it as a notable shift in browser preferences. The trend is most pronounced in the U.S. and UK, where user demand for customizable features and privacy-focused tools appears to be driving the switch.
Next steps include monitoring whether Opera’s growth translates into market share gains or prompts Google to adjust Chrome’s default status. Coverage does not yet specify if this shift is tied to specific features or broader user dissatisfaction with Chrome.
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Quick answers
Is Opera Mobile now the most popular browser in the U.S. and UK?
No. Coverage indicates a *surge* in usage—up 48%—but does not state it has surpassed Chrome or Safari in market share.
Which platforms is Opera gaining traction on?
Both Android and iOS, with explicit mention of iPhone users in the U.S. and UK.
Has Google responded to Opera’s rise?
Coverage does not yet specify any official response from Google.
Coverage (5)
- Opera Mobile Usage Surges in the U.S. and UK Thurrott.com · 18h ago
- Opera's mobile growth accelerates 48% across the UK and the US as more users seek Android and iOS browser alternatives Morningstar · 18h ago
- Opera’s growth shows users will switch browsers when given a choice Digital Trends · 18h ago
- Opera gains ground among iPhone users in the US and UK 9to5Mac · 18h ago
- Chrome may be the default browser on Android, but more people are trying this instead Android Central · 18h ago
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