Opera Mini 4.2 released

Norwegian web browser company Opera has released version 4.2 of its Opera Mini Java-based browser for mobile phones.

Opera released a public beta version of the browser two weeks ago.

The company has now also announced the availability of a beta of Mini 4.2 for the Google Android mobile platform, making it the first available alternative browser on Android based phones such as the T-Mobile G1.

New features in Opera Mini 4.2 include support for more languages, such as Bengali and Punjabi, new skins for greater personalisation and greater speed, especially for US customers, thanks to the addition of a US-based server.

Opera also said that users will save money on data charges as its servers compress all data sent to the mobile browser, though this will have no benefit for those on all-you-can-eat data packages.

Other features include Opera Link, which enables users to sync their notes between their PCs and Opera Mini.

"With Opera Mini 4.2, we are showing the world that Opera never gets complacent. We will always be improving our product, adding speed, new functionality and features, and ensuring that it is accessible by all," said Opera's chief executive, Jon von Tetzchner in a statement.

Opera Mini is available for download here.

Benny Har-Even is a twenty-year stalwart of technology journalism who is passionate about all areas of the industry, but telecoms and mobile and home entertainment are among his chief interests. He has written for many of the leading tech publications in the UK, such as PC Pro and Wired, and previously held the position of technology editor at ITPro before regularly contributing as a freelancer.

Known affectionately as a ‘geek’ to his friends, his passion has seen him land opportunities to speak about technology on BBC television broadcasts, as well as a number of speaking engagements at industry events.