Opera reports sharp iOS growth in Europe as DMA’s browser choice rules reshape competition

Opera says its iOS user base in Europe has expanded rapidly over the past year, a shift the company links to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) and broader changes in mobile browser behavior. New data released this week shows a significant jump in daily active users, with some markets seeing growth several times higher than before the DMA took effect.

According to figures shared by the Norway-based company, Opera’s daily active iOS users in Europe increased 88% in the 12-month period ending October 2025. Key markets such as France recorded the strongest gains, where Opera reports a fivefold rise in active users since the DMA was implemented in 2024. The company said its iOS user base across Europe has nearly tripled over two years.

The DMA requires mobile platforms to present users with a browser choice screen during device setup, prompting them to select a default browser rather than relying on a pre-installed option. Opera attributes part of its momentum to this requirement but also points to recent product updates aimed at differentiating its browser experience on iPhones.

Opera’s EVP of Mobile, Jørgen Arnesen, said the company saw an opportunity to redesign its iOS offering two years ago following a long period of limited growth. Since then, the company has introduced features such as an integrated VPN, AI-driven tools, and a revamped tab management system. Opera One, its redesigned flagship browser for iOS, has been central to this strategy.

Alongside regulatory changes, Opera’s own marketing campaigns and feature rollouts have played a role in user acquisition. The company cites strong adoption of tab organization tools and integrated AI as factors that have helped it compete more effectively against default browsers on iOS.

Opera’s broader financial performance reflects similar momentum. The company reported $152 million in revenue in its most recent quarter, up 23% year-over-year, with growth in high-value users contributing to its results. It also reported a 24% adjusted EBITDA margin, marking its 18th consecutive quarter meeting the Rule-of-40 benchmark.

As the DMA continues to reshape how mobile platforms present and distribute software in Europe, the browser landscape is becoming more competitive. With nearly 400 million smartphone users in the region gaining more visibility into alternative browsing options, Opera’s recent growth suggests that at least part of the market is responding to the expanded choices now available.