Opera Mini 5 beta shuns Java for Windows Mobile version
By Chris Ziegler 
posted March 4th 2010 10:54AM
posted March 4th 2010 10:54AM
Got WinMo? Don't have a Java VM? No problem! Opera has taken the time to rewrite its Opera Mini 5 beta as a native Windows Mobile application compatible with both 5 and 6.x-based handsets, meaning you won't need the Java compatibility that's traditionally required to run it -- compatibility that ironically makes it one of the more widely-deployed mobile browsers in the world. Though the thicker, fuller-featured Opera Mobile product is already a stalwart on WinMo that HTC bundles with the better portion of its devices, the presumed advantage with Mini is that it's tighter, faster, and consumes considerably less data -- perfect when roaming or on a low-allowance plan. Heck, why not have both? The Mini beta download is available now.
1st.
@DallasB
This is Engadget Mobile commenting on article about Opera Mini, WM5/6, and Java. Being first is not an accomplishment. FIRST!!!ZOMG!!ONE!0! trolls around the world hang their heads.
@derX oh geez get over it. Look at his "1st" comment and if you don't like it then comment on what the article is about. Don't waste your time.
@DallasB Haha your first. Woot woot!
Thanks Opera!!!!! You are sooo nice!
Great.. i always use mini.. its one of the best mobile browsers.. im using it now on my dumbphone..
Just downloaded it today on my omnia, and I see no reason why the traditional Opera Mobile needs to exist. Compared with the Mobile 10 Beta, Mini 5 starts up faster, has a faster interface (with bigger and easier to read fonts) and loads pages in about 5 seconds or less (going back in the history is instant also). Love it.
@nitrous9200 : Seconded. I had been thinking to write them and ask if the 'Turbo Mode' could be made more like Mini, and today I find this. It's a keeper, just wish the 'Small' font were a little smaller...
Has anyone compared this to Skyfire 1.5?
I love skyfire's home screen because I've set it to aggregate facebook, twitter, gmail and engadget posts. I just start it, and in seconds all the information I look up most often is right there. So unless there's something super awesome about Opera mini 5b, I don't think I'll be switching.
Just tried it for the Touch Pro 2 & it installs through Java
@xnifex disregard, I had to use Internet Explorer instead of Opera Mobile on my phone to get it.
Damn this thing is nice! I wish it cached your history like in OMini
I tried it and I still like Opera Mobile more.
First, unlike what I would've expected from Opera Mini, this version is no good for non-touchscreen devices, as UI navigation via keypad/d-pad doesn't work. Also, I still will rather have all the processing done on my device. Using OperaMini (or Skyfire, or similarly-made browsers) for stuff like online banking is not private and secure enough.
That said, going JAVA-less is a step in the right direction!
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