Users loading the default Opera browser start page found a message stating the formerly ad-supported free version would now be ad-free.

“Feel free,” Opera Software now tells users of its web browser. Previously, the browser was available either for free with integrated advertising, or ad free in exchange for a license fee. The ads and the fee are now part of Opera’s history, so people who missed out on Opera’s 24-hour giveaway of license codes to remove the ads can grab the ad-free 8.5 version.

Users who wish to do so may purchase premium support from Opera. That costs $29 for one year of email support on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X systems.

The Opera browser includes a number of features, and is easily comparable to Mozilla’s Firefox product. Opera offers tabbed browsing, popup blocking, and support for RSS feeds and IRC chat. Another feature, called Fast Forward, will detect the most likely “next page link” by clicking a button.

Opera’s behavior can be controlled by mouse gestures. Also, a voice feature available to English speaking Opera users on Windows 2000 and XP. One can initiate browser commands vocally, or even have the browser “read” text aloud.

Opera’s built-in email client handles POP and IMAP mail. It also functions as a Usenet news reader and RSS/Atom newsfeed reading client. An IRC client has been included, and an integrated search box for sifting through Google, Amazon, and other sources can be found.

The company also makes a “technical preview” available of its browser with integrated BitTorrent support.

David Utter is a staff writer for Murdok covering technology and business. Email him here.