Opera has released a free and unlimited VPN app for Android that lets people enhance their online privacy, block ad-tracking cookies, access more online content, extend the geographical reach of apps and test the security of Wi-Fi networks.
The Android version of the Opera VPN app follows the iOS version that rolled out globally in May. The VPN app allows users to change their virtual location by selecting IP addresses from locations such as the US, Canada, Germany, Singapore, or the Netherlands.
The Wi-Fi test tool in Opera VPN will scan a Wi-Fi network to check if it's public or private, if it's encrypted, how many other devices share the same connection, if the IP address and the location are exposed, and if others can monitor device details. If the test tool detects weaknesses, it will advise enabling the VPN. The test tool gives a score from A, which means the network is secure, to F, which means the network is not secure and the user should proceed with caution.
Chris Houston, President of Surfeasy, Opera's VPN division
The Opera VPN app for Android sets itself apart from other VPNs by offering a completely free service - without a data limit, no log-in required, advanced Wi-Fi protection features and no need for a subscription. We've incorporated a Viking in the app, because Vikings didn't care about borders, and they certainly wouldn't be afraid of public Wi-Fi. The Opera VPN app can unlock online borders and is the closest thing to a Viking shield that today's mobile users have for virtual self-protection.