Opera has launched early public access to its innovative AI-powered web browser, Neon, and it’s not your typical free software. For just $19.90 a month, users can tap into an advanced browsing experience, previously available only through an invite-only program since its debut last October.
According to Opera, Neon isn’t just another browser—it’s a gateway to cutting-edge AI technologies that offer users a sophisticated workspace. This comes at a premium because it integrates robust AI agents and models, including Gemini 3 Pro and OpenAI GPT 5.1, which users would ordinarily pay for separately.
What Makes Opera Neon Stand Out?
Neon is designed to move beyond basic chatbot interactions to a more autonomous browsing experience. Competitors like Perplexity and OpenAI have already introduced their own AI browsers, while tech giants like Google and Microsoft have integrated AI features into Chrome and Edge. However, experts caution that AI-powered browsers also bring significant cybersecurity risks.
Explore Neon’s Unique AI Features
Neon is equipped with four specialized AI agents:
- Chat: This functions like a traditional chatbot, allowing users to engage in conversation and ask questions.
- Neon Do: An intelligent agent capable of autonomously navigating the internet to research topics and summarize findings directly in documents.
- Neon Make: A creative studio within the browser that can generate code, applications, images, and videos.
- ODRA: A deep-research agent designed to dissect complex topics, like “urban vertical farming,” into thorough reports exportable as PDFs.
Neon can multitask, handling multiple AI projects like traditional browsers manage tabs. Users can even create “Cards” to streamline recurring workflows.
Understanding the Risks of AI Browsers
This groundbreaking rollout coincides with warnings from cybersecurity experts. Gartner has advised companies to block AI browser usage due to the potential exposure of sensitive information. These browsers can gather data on active web content, browser history, and open tabs, which can heighten security risks.
One primary concern is “indirect prompt injections,” unique threats posed by AI agents that autonomously navigate the web. If AI agents encounter malicious content, they could be manipulated into sharing private data or executing unauthorized actions.
How Are Companies Addressing These Security Issues?
The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre recently highlighted these risks, stating that prompt injection may never be fully mitigated. Their advice emphasizes reducing risk and impact rather than relying on single-point fixes.
Opera acknowledges these vulnerabilities. They’ve responded to a specific prompt-injection scenario identified by security researchers by successfully implementing a patch for Neon.
Google is also actively working on enhancements, recently introducing the “User Alignment Critic.” This model scrutinizes an AI agent’s plans against third-party content to ensure they align with user intentions, essentially supervising the AI’s actions.
Is Opera Neon Worth the Investment?
With its impressive features and advanced capabilities, the question remains: should you invest in Opera Neon? Given the ongoing developments in AI technology and security measures, it might be prudent to observe how the technology performs on the open web before making a commitment.
What are the main advantages of using an AI-powered browser? AI browsers like Opera Neon offer enhanced productivity through intelligent features that streamline tasks, making research and content creation easier.
Are there security concerns with AI browsers? Yes, AI browsers carry unique cybersecurity risks, including data exposure and prompt injection vulnerabilities that could potentially compromise user privacy.
How does Opera address security in Neon? Opera has patched known vulnerabilities and continues to monitor AI capabilities to mitigate security risks effectively.
What sets Opera Neon apart from other AI browsers? Neon stands out with its comprehensive suite of AI agents designed to assist with various tasks, from chatting to deep research.
In conclusion, while there’s much to explore with Opera Neon, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks. For more insights into the evolving world of technology, feel free to continue your journey at Moyens I/O.