Opera puts Linux browser to the test

Opera Software has released a new beta, or test, version of its Web browser for Linux. Opera 6.0 for Linux Beta 1 is designed to provide users of the open-source operating system with a faster, easier-to-use browser, the company said in a statement. The Oslo, Norway-based company also added non-Roman alphabets to the browser in an effort to increase usage in Asia and Eastern Europe. Additional features include the ability to create contact lists, to import bookmarks and other files, and to use most Netscape plug-ins. The release comes several months after a counterpart was offered for the Windows operating system. Opera offers free versions of its browsers, but advertising is attached. Ad-free Opera costs $39. Paying users of Opera 5.x for Linux can upgrade for free to the 6.0 beta. Paying users of Opera 4.x can upgrade for $15.