The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) is reshaping the mobile browser market, driving significant user growth for alternative platforms like Opera on Apple’s iPhone.
Opera, an alternative browser, reports a substantial increase in its European user base, with daily active users on iOS nearly tripling since 2023. This growth directly contrasts with Apple’s stated opposition to digital market regulations.
The surge follows the DMA’s implementation, which mandates Apple to display a default browser selection panel when Safari is opened for the first time on an iPhone. This regulatory change appears to be a major advantage for alternative browsers.
Opera recorded a 57% growth in its first year under the DMA. This was followed by an 88% increase in the most recent twelve months, ending in October 2025.
Opera initially launched an alternative browser for iPhone 15 years ago but experienced limited growth for over a decade. The DMA requirements, coupled with a renewed focus on unique features like an integrated free VPN, reignited interest.
European regulations played a crucial role by compelling Apple, and Google, to present a browser choice screen to users. An internal study cited by Opera suggests 80% of Europeans are willing to try a new browser, indicating widespread demand for transparency.
The expanding user base is boosting Opera’s financial performance. The company reported $152 million in revenue last quarter, marking a 23% increase year-on-year.
Revenue from searches also climbed by 17%. Opera emphasizes that the increased usage on iOS is now a significant contributor to its overall profitability.