Opera Software has released the latest Opera 50 version desktop browser for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Opera includes numerous new features such as a new anti-cryptomining feature and Chromecast & VR 360 support for the Oculus VR headset. These features were initially available on the beta RC version of Opera 50.
As we mentioned, Opera has officially announced the release of a stable build of the latest Opera 50 Web browser. The Opera 50 browser has the new NoCoin feature that helps block webpages that discreetly use cryptocurrency mining scripts. Opera recently stated that the NoCoin will work on the lines of its integrated ad blocker software. The browser developer also claims that Opera 50 is the first major browser to add protection against these kind of attacks.
The emergence of 'cryptojacking' has been popularised by the interest around Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies globally. Opera uses the NoCoin list of cryptocurrency mining scripts to effectively filter out unwanted webpages. To prevent against cryptojacking, users need to activate the inbuilt ad blocker in Settings, where new anti-cryptocurrency mining feature is switched on automatically. Users can also activate the anti mining tool separately by checking the 'NoCoin' tick box in preferences.
NoCoin can also be found by going into Settings (Preferences on macOS) > Basic > Block Ads. The option will be visible under the Recommended lists menu.
Opera 50 Browser Blocks Websites From Mining Bitcoin on Your PC
Opera 50 also adds casting support for Chromecast playback. To access the feature, go to Settings (Preferences on macOS) > Browser > User interface and select the 'Enable Chromecast support' option. Once enabled, the Chromecast icon will appear at relevant locations to play videos, cast tabs, and cast the entire desktop display.
The Opera VR Player is now accessible for all Oculus Rift users. Opera 50 has added VR360 support to the Oculus Rift on the web browser. The update also adds JavaScript-based detection for select websites to help with proper playback.
The inbuilt currency converter on the Opera browser is getting updated with four cryptocurrencies, namely Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), and Litecoin (LTC). To select the default currency, users can go to Settings (Preferences on macOS) > Browser > User interface and choose the currency from On text selection convert currency option.
Other upgrades include a better unit converter that now supports conversion from millimetres to inches. In addition, the free, inbuilt VPN service will now be moved to Opera's own data centres for a better experience. A new Save page as PDF button has been added for user convenience.
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