A Linux version of the Opera GX gaming browser is officially in development, as announced in a recent tweet from the official Opera GX account. The announcement followed a clever remark about Microsoft adding AI features to Windows 11’s file manager, prompting the question: "Is this a good time to announce that we are working on the Linux version of Opera GX?"
What is Opera GX?
Opera GX is a gaming-focused version of the standard Opera browser, launched in 2019 for Windows and a few months later for macOS. It integrates various gaming features, such as Razer Chroma support, a sidebar for Discord and Twitch, and a gaming release calendar. Furthermore, it offers built-in resource limiters for CPU, RAM, and network usage, a free VPN, and custom themes, including a ‘force dark mode’ option.
Despite the regular Opera browser being available on Linux for years, Opera GX’s absence was notable, particularly with a growing interest in gaming on Linux. The decision to develop a Linux version reflects a perceived shift in market dynamics and user preferences.
Anticipated Release Timeline
While there is no specific release date for the Linux version of Opera GX, it’s mentioned that it may arrive in the first quarter of the coming year. However, details about which features will be included remain sparse. It’s expected that key features such as panic mode, tab islands, and possibly AI functionalities will be part of the launch, though certain features like Razer Chroma integration may face challenges due to the diversity in Linux distributions.
The development of Opera GX for Linux is seen as a positive step. There are those who argue that the Linux ecosystem doesn’t necessarily need another browser, but the availability of more options can encourage users to switch systems and possibly attract Windows users looking for alternatives to increasingly complex AI-driven platforms.
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Source: Neowin