New Opera Mini up to 50% Faster

Opera has released a new version of its popular mobile browser, containing some interesting additions as well as a significant boost to its page load speed. Mini 4.1, which entered public beta back in early April, takes advantage of server upgrades by accessing Web sites with a quickness normally reserved for desktop browsers.

Acceleration in Opera Mini 4.1 isn't only limited to Web page requests, either. Included in this latest version is the ability to upload and download files directly. In the past, activities such as adding photos to your MySpace page or posting to your blog forced you to be re-routed through your phone's native browser. This slowed things down tremendously, and the positive difference in Mini 4.1 is definitely noticeable. Another worthwhile upgrade allows you to save Web pages for offline viewing, making it possible to peruse content even when you're stuck without network access. This can come in handy on the train, the plane, or just about anywhere else a signal is unavailable. Finally, Mini 4.1 boasts a URL auto-complete feature which takes its cue from your Bookmarks as well as your past browsing history.

Opera Mini 4.1 can be downloaded by visiting operamini.com via your mobile device's existing browser.

In related mobile browser news... Skyfire Labs, which unveiled details back in January about a powerful mobile browser that mimics a desktop experience, has finally released a beta version that is creating quite a buzz.