Opera has unveiled an update for its Opera One users, marking a pivotal shift towards enhancing user privacy and leveraging the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) directly on users' computers. The browser now supports the use of Large Language Models (LLMs) locally, bypassing the need to process data on external servers. This initiative is part of Opera's broader strategy to position itself as an AI-centric browser, following the introduction of its AI assistant, Aria, last year.
Diverse Range of Models and Privacy Assurance
The update provides access to an extensive collection of over 150 models from more than 50 different families, including notable names such as Llama from Meta, Gemini from Google, and others like Vicuna and Mistral AI. Opera emphasizes user privacy by ensuring that all data processed by these models remains on the user's device. The implementation is powered by the Ollama open-source framework, which facilitates the running of these models on local systems. Depending on the model, the required storage space on a local system ranges from 2 to 10GB.
Krystian Kolondra, EVP of Browsers and Gaming at Opera, highlighted the significance of this move, stating it opens avenues for Opera to explore and build experiences within the local AI space, ensuring users' data privacy and security.
Operational Details and Market Impact
To utilize the new feature, users must upgrade to the latest version of Opera Developer. The activation of local LLMs allows for a seamless integration of AI functionalities directly on the user's device, providing an alternative to using Opera's AI assistant, Aria, for as long as the local LLMs are active.
This development is a strategic effort by Opera to enhance its market share by offering unique and innovative features. According to a December 2023 report by Statcounter, Opera holds a 3.8% market share among desktop browsers, positioning it within the top 5. The introduction of local LLMs and the AI Feature Drops Program is expected to further solidify Opera's standing in the competitive browser market, offering users a blend of privacy-focused and AI-enhanced browsing experience.
