Opera is officially bringing its VPN to iOS, making it the first web browser to offer a free, integrated VPN service on all major platforms, including Mac, Linux, Windows, and Android.
The announcement comes just weeks after Google expanded its VPN to Windows and Mac. but where Google’s VPN is only available to premium Google One subscribers, Opera is offering its integrated VPN on all platforms for free.
While Opera is far from the best free VPN on the market, the latest upgrade will mean that Opera iPhone users will no longer have to download a third-party platform to use VPN software, making it easier for them to mask their IP address.
Opera VPN for iOS
Opera rolled out its VPN on iOS this Wednesday, making it the first web browser to offer a free, integrated VPN on all major platforms. The alternative web browser announced the feature in a press release, referring to it as a ‘vital tool to iOS users to ensure their online safety and privacy.’
As part of the feature, users will have instant access to virtual locations around the world, unlimited bandwidth, no cap data and over 100 servers.
You don’t need a subscription, you don’t have to log in, and there are no additional extensions. All you need to do is just to hit a switch in the main menu to browse in peace, since the Opera browser makes sure that VPN traffic is encrypted and your IP address is private. – Patrick Curtin, Opera
The iOS app will also include device file-sharing feature capabilities, a native Crypto Wallet, cryptojacking protection, a bookmark, a speed dial feature, a Live Score homepage, and a built-in ad blocker — which the brand is already well known for.
However, it also lacks core VPN features like a kill switch, doesn't use a safe tunneling protocol, and hasn't been independently audited by an external security company. Opera does say the company doesn't keep any logs of user activity when they're using the browser VPN, but it certainly does this if you're searching without it – so, it's a little harder to trust it.
Is Opera’s Free iOS VPN Worth It?
Opera’s free VPN for iOS is really simple. There’s no subscription, no logging into an account, and no additional extensions, which is great if you’re already a fan of the browser.
That said, it doesn’t do anything outside of the Opera browser and is pretty restricted, so it’s not the best VPN on the market. What's more, it lacks basic privacy features like a kill switch, so there are definitely much better options out there.
The truth is free VPN services are always going to be limited, no matter how many devices the service is available on – so it’s always worth doing your research to find the best VPN for your individual needs. NordVPN is the best we've come tested in 2023, but Surfshark is equally reliable and well worth the small investment.
