Opera Mini introduces PIN-protected browsing

Opera has introduced PIN-protected surfing for its browser Opera Mini to boost privacy protections.

Dubbed Locked Mode, the privacy enhancement addresses the needs of users Opera says have requested increased password protection features, especially when sharing devices with family or friends.

The new feature allows users to set a PIN independent of the device’s main lock code, which secures their tabs, history, and stored data, granting them greater control over their mobile browsing even when they share their devices.

A simple switch allows users to toggle between regular browsing and Locked Mode, which ensures that sensitive personal information, like medical or financial statements, remains truly private.

“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,” said Jørgen Arnesen, EVP of Mobile at Opera.

“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.”

Once Locked Mode is activated, all new tabs and data entered such as URLs and search queries are encrypted, said the Norway-based company.

These tabs and data are visible only when Locked Mode is active and unlocked with the PIN.

Users can activate Locked Mode from the O-Menu or through the tabs switcher view in Opera Mini.

Under the new feature, browsing history within Locked Mode remains inaccessible from the standard browsing mode and any sites visited or searches made are kept private and visible only when Locked Mode is re-entered.