Opera are synonymous with mobile web browsers. The Norwegian outfit are the major player when it comes to third party web browsers, currently powering millions of phones across the globe. The reason? Opera brings with it several enhancements over a standard web browser, the main advantage being speed. The ability to load pages super quick is achieved by compressing web pages by up to 90% for even faster load times whilst this compression occurs on a remote server saving your phone from any unecessary processing.

All very well and good, but what if you’ve got an Android smartphone? Well, don’t fret, Opera Mini 5 is now available in Beta for Android. Available to download from Opera’s site and found in the Android Market app store, Opera Mini 5 comes with all the usual goodies – the aforementioned speed, tabbed browsing, password managers, bookmarks and speed dial. It’s easy to see why Opera is the browser of choice for so many mobile users.

Opera Mini 5 Beta for Android follows hot on the heels of its Windows Mobile variation which was rolled out last week. And, with Opera also beavering away on an Opera browser for the iPhone and nearly ready to be submitted to Apple for approval (though it’s anyone’s guess if Apple will give it the go ahead), it might not be too long before we see an Opera browser on every smartphone operating system. If you’ve got an Android phone and want to check out the Opera Mini 5 Beta in the Android Market. Not got an Android phone but want one? Then check out our range of Android powered mobile phones here.