Opera Software has release a second beta for version 9.5 of its flagship browser. Opera 9.5 beta 2 brings several new features and a number of bug fixes as Opera moves toward the final release (slated for later this year).
Beta 2 adds support for syncing Notes via Opera Link, the company‘s hosted solution for those that want to sync and maintain bookmarks across platforms/PCs. On the security front, beta 2 brings EV SSL certificate support (the next-gen security layer that PayPal may soon require) and improved fraud protection.
The Opera Desktop blog also touts better performance and some UI improvements for the Quick Find search tool (also known as history search), as well as improvements in page rendering times and overall speed.
For complete details about all the new features and a list of bug fixes (which vary slightly by platform) check out the changelog. Although Opera 9.5 is still a beta, we’ve found it stable enough in previous releases. After playing with the new beta for a bit this morning I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it — so long as you bear in mind that it’s a beta and there could be some issues. If you’d like to take the plunge you can grab Opera 9.5 beta 2 from the Opera website.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
New Opera 9.5 Beta Improves Security and Adds More Syncing Features
Skype is now mobile. Calling your world is free.
Skype is looking to expand its mobile offerings and is opening up a public beta for its mobile software. You don’t need a computer to make free calls anymore. Use 3 Skypephone instead. It’s a stylish mobile phone that calls, texts and takes pictures like you’d expect it to – but wait, there’s more – you can call and instant message your friends on Skype, free. About 50 different phone models are compatible with the Java-based software. It allows users to chat, show their online presence, and receive both calls from other users as well as through SkypeIn. Mobile operator 3 during that time brought Skype to the mobile, however it was not true VoIP as it is commonly found. Instead, the voice signals flowed through a separate voice channel on the company's network. During the beta, the company will use consumer feedback to adjust the product to meet the needs of its users. Users in several markets also get additional features, including the placing of SkypeOut and Skype-to-Skype calls. Brazil, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom will all have markets that gain those additional features. The beta is expected to last several months. "We need to hear what delights them and where there is still work to be done," mobile chief Gareth O'Loughlin said of the beta. "This product underscores our commitment to innovation and to putting Skype conversations in the pockets of today's mobile masses."
The company had been distancing itself from mobile Skype due to handset and technical issues for some time. However it now appears those hurdles have been overcome, and the VoIP software is ready for prime time on mobile devices.