Simon is a Computer Science BSc graduate who has been writing about technology since 2014, and using Windows machines since 3.1. After working for an indie game studio and acting as the family's go-to technician for all computer issues, he found his passion for writing and decided to use his skill set to write about all things tech.
Since beginning his writing career, he has written for many different publications such as WorldStart, Listverse, and MakeTechEasier. However, after finding his home at MakeUseOf in February 2019, he would eventually move on to its sister site, XDA, to bring the latest and greatest in Windows, Linux, and DIY electronics.
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Summary
- Opera re-releases Air: a minimalist, calm browser focused on simplicity and smoothness.
- Built-in Soundscapes offer Focus, Relax, Work, and Ambience playlists made just for the browser.
- It also comes with the essentials: an ad blocker, a free VPN, auto light/dark mode, and gentle break reminders.
Back in early 2025, we saw Opera release its new browser, Air. The idea behind Air was simple; while other browsers tend to shove a ton of exciting features in your face, Air made things a lot simpler, smoother, and most importantly, calmer. Now, Opera is taking a second shot with its Air browser, as it's re-releasing it with some nice tweaks.
Opera Air is back once again to help you chill out
It even comes with its own soundtrack
If Opera GX is the teenage kid that games all night long, Opera Air is the yoga-practicing parent meditating after a long day. It's deliberately very light on features, with a calm theme and automatic swapping between light and dark mode. You can add features to it if you like, but it does come with some of the essentials, like an ad blocker and a free VPN. It's less about giving you everything to start, and more about letting you add only what you need.
Opera Air also comes with a Soundscapes feature. You can pick between four moods: Focus, Relax, Work, and Ambience. Each one plays music according to what you're trying to achieve, and all the tracks were made specifically for the browser. Finally, you can set up built-in break reminders to help you chill out and exercise your neck while you work.
If you'd like to give the new Opera Air a go, you can download it starting today over at the Opera website. If you tried Air in the past and didn't really like it, it's worth giving this re-released version a try, if only to see if Opera managed to fix whatever it was that put you off.