Alex Ruben
Vivaldi 7.3.3 Update: Enhanced Security, Bug Fixes, and UI Improvements
The latest update to Vivaldi, version 7.3.3, introduces a series of important enhancements and bug fixes that aim to improve user experience, security, and overall functionality. This release follows the major version 7.3 rollout and focuses on refining existing features while addressing some user-reported issues.
Built-in VPN Improvements
One of the standout features of Vivaldi 7.3 is its built-in VPN, which is based on the Proton VPN service. This update has received two significant fixes. Users reported that the Proton extension button would appear in chromeless mode, which has now been corrected. Additionally, if users were attempting to remove the button from the toolbar, it inadvertently disabled the VPN functionality. These fixes enhance the reliability of the VPN service, making it more user-friendly and efficient for privacy-conscious users.
Security Enhancements
This update includes crucial security fixes derived from the Chromium platform, which Vivaldi is built upon. Specifically, version 7.3.3 addresses 14 security vulnerabilities, including one classified as high severity, related to a use-after-free error in navigation. The remaining fixes cover medium and low-severity issues, reflecting Vivaldi’s commitment to maintaining a secure browsing environment. These timely updates ensure that users benefit from the latest security measures available in the broader Chromium ecosystem.
Bug Fixes and General Improvements
Alongside security updates, Vivaldi 7.3.3 addresses several bugs that users have encountered:
- Bookmark Functionality: The issue with middle mouse button clicks not opening folders in the bookmarks menu has been resolved, enhancing navigation efficiency.
- Mail Feature Updates: Users of Vivaldi Mail will benefit from fixes that resolve missing messages in the list and improve startup speed, which previously could take longer than expected.
- Panel Behavior: The bug causing a new window to trigger the side panel when opening has been fixed, ensuring smoother multitasking.
- Share Button Issue: The share button in Vivaldi was not disappearing from secondary windows, which has now been addressed, streamlining the user interface.
Startup UI Improvements
One of the most noticeable changes in this update is the enhancement of the startup splash screen. Previously a pale blue translucent color, it has been redesigned to a more modern charcoal dark gray, aligning better with user feedback and the overall browser theme. This aesthetic improvement not only makes the startup experience more visually appealing but also reflects Vivaldi’s responsiveness to user input.
Conclusion
The Vivaldi 7.3.3 update successfully integrates essential security fixes and bug resolutions while enhancing the user interface. The improvements to the built-in VPN and the startup screen demonstrate Vivaldi’s ongoing commitment to user experience and security. As users continue to navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape, these updates ensure that Vivaldi remains a robust choice for privacy-conscious individuals seeking a customizable browsing experience.