14 DAY TRIAL // Opera has just announced that its new Project Reborn browser makeover has been promoted to the developer version 45 with a bunch of extra improvements, including support for WhatsApp messenger.
Project Reborn is one of the biggest overhauls of the browser and starting with this version, it integrates quick access to WhatsApp Web, making it possible for users to chat with their contacts using the icon in the sidebar. Whenever a new message arrives, the WhatsApp icon gets a small red circle to notify that unread messages are available, just like it was previously the case with Facebook Messenger.
WhatsApp can easily be launched in Opera either by clicking its dedicated icon in the sidebar or with the CTRL + SHIFT + M shortcut on Windows or ⌘ + ⇧ + M on macOS.
Project Reborn taking shape quite nicely
Opera says the redesigned interface advances and some other improvements are also available following the original release that took place a few weeks back.
“The first glimpse of the Reborn interface was released two weeks ago, and now, after such a short time, the project is ready for another refresh in the developer stream. Following all the feedback we received from you, some small improvements, such as colors, contrasts, readability, and space above tabs, have been added,” Opera says.
The same version also comes with a bunch of fixes, including one that addresses a problem with opening speed dials and suggestions in a new window. Linux users are also getting some Flash tweaks, as Opera lowered Flash requirements to version 23, so users don’t necessarily have to install the latest version.
Project Reborn is clearly worth a try, especially if you are a hardcore WhatsApp user, but keep in mind that this version is still in development stage and issues could still exist. A more stable beta build, however, should be ready in the coming weeks, while the stable version might land in April.