Use cases for Unite and Widgets you think should be transferred to other Opera projects

Use cases for Unite and Widgets you think should be transferred to other Opera projects

Today we are announcing the beginning of the end for two of our current Add-on platforms. Starting with the upcoming Opera 12 release, Opera Unite and Opera Widgets will be turned off by default for new users. The two Add-on platforms will be completely removed in a later release expected before the end of this year.

We would love to hear your feedback on use cases for Opera Unite or Opera Widgets you think should be transferred to Opera extensions or other technology.

The W3C widgets specification isn't really specific to "widgets" as they currently exist in Opera. It mostly specifies how any sort of add-on should be packaged. In fact, Opera extensions use the same specification.

Hereby I request that Unite is preserved, or barring that it is handed out to the developer community. At the moment I am staying with Opera 10.62 and a Opera 12 beta, and would like to continue using Unite and its services for wgat little I have done with them so far mostly because of the possibilities.

Some of the case uses I face:

✦ Dictate courses — the Lounge Application and the Math Session Whiteboard application, while limited, have been quite useful in setting up a small virtual classroom where required. A couple of times I have integrated and used the Lounge application to showcase and evaluate code in a group setting.

✦ File Sharing — I think this one is pretty obvious, don't need to talk much about this subject. Courier and File Inbox are quite useful if not vital in this sense.

✦ Others — Geolocation and the OpenID provider app (when it works) are useful in maintaining digital independence in these times of Google and Facebook. For about a year I was hoping that someone would start integrating OwnCloud, Diaspora or something similar as a Unite Ap, yet nothing happened. Also, things like TempBin and the UJS Manager are quite useful in their own right.

In the end, it would be sad and damaging to lose these big features. Opera Unite was the right new direction to head to as Opera was aiming to be an "Internet Suite", it's a shame it is not being followed upon.

It would be good if Opera is not going to continue the operation and maintenance of Unite to give them to the public / developer community. Surely someone will want to maintain or reimplement a Unite-like server, and in my opinion there are still big things that can be done with the Unite technology, if the chance and the means are given out to the right people. Which with this move unfortunately Opera Software demonstrates not to be.

In other news, this adds one more reason for me to stay with Opera 10.6x as my main browser. Opera 11 was, in many regards, just a slide of decadence, and for all the improvements O12 seems to be bringing in compensation, the price to pay for it seems to be too high.
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This is a very bad decision. Opera Unite is just fantastic. I use it to share big files. I am very disappointed now after reading this message. I want to have the recentest version of Opera, but I don’t want to lose Opera Unite. Not now, not tomorrow, not about a week, not about a month, not about a year, not about 10 years, NEVER! I hope the people of Opera will as fast as possible change their mind and decide to keep at least Opera Unite.

You can't dump Unite.

It's too much a good idea to be sacrified.

I didn't use voice navigation. However, I like "speak" function in opera very much. I am not a native English speaker. I used to rely on "speak' to learn the pronunciation and is pretty handy. I would like to request to come back 'speak' as an add-on.

Hi everyone,

I think there are two big things I'd like Opera to do with its Widgets legacy.

1. I'd like Opera to contribute as many existing widgets as possible to Apache Wookie, which allows them to be embedded in websites and applications such as Wordpress, portals etc. There are some great Widgets and it would be a shame to lose them. I'm also working on a web app store for schools and I'd love to be able to include lots of opera widgets, which I could do if I could run them in Wookie. Many Opera widgets were already converted to W3C format already, so it wouldn't be much work. (The main issue here is licensing, though I think Opera obtained a license grant from all Widget authors)

2. I'd like Opera to contribute some of its widget runtime work to Apache Cordova (aka PhoneGap) to enable wrapping Widgets in native desktop containers. Cordova already supports wrapping up Widgets to make iOS and Android native apps - it would be great if the work on building native Mac and Windows apps from Widgets were to be reused.

Overall I reckon this wouldn't take more than 1 developer part time, and would make a huge and very visible difference, and helps to ensure a healthy ecosystem of open widgets that also benefits Opera Extensions and any future work on installed/packaged web apps.

S

Dear Sirs,
I have a real need for the Opera Unite web server. I my wife and I have made directory of over 50 free social networking web pages. Opera Unite has some thing none of the others have, the ability to actually learn to write our own page code. The others allow people to do template and maybe change some css.
With Opera Unite Web server I am able to write code changes and see them at once. Please see the blog posts I have been putting up about learning to use opera Unite web server. Opera has a niche market that has been largely untapped and rather than dumping it I think it should be developed. If you need ideas for what to do with it, or how to promote Opera Unite Web server let me know. Opera Unite is like a capstone on the free web page / social network communities should be. Don't scrap it. Get someone with imagination to run it and make it into your best asset. Thank you.

Originally posted by EspenAO:

Today we are announcing the beginning of the end for two of our current Add-on platforms.

While I think this is probably a very good idea in the long run, my main reason for thinking this is not that they should be gotten rid of, but rather that Opera's extensibility is so completely fragmented and internally incompatible that there really needs to be some "rationalisation" to make it a coherent development platform.

• People have long bemoaned UserJS being the "red-headed stepchild" of Opera features. Even though one can now package them as extensions for easy installation, this is still a far cry from the ease of Greasemonky or - soon to be no more - Unite UserJS Manager.
• The fact that Opera Buttons - pretty much one of the primary things that brought me to Opera - was never integrated into the extensions platform in any way whatsoever is ever-so-slightly insane.
• The general lack of applicability of ANY of the extension platforms to IRC, Mail, Contacts, etc. is madder again - a JS-based server API was added to a browser with a built-in chat and mail client, and the best that could be done was some fiddly ajax chat-servers. No TCP/XMPP/anything.

All-in all, addition of Opera features has always been brilliant, innovative, trend-leading, but completely disjointed and seemingly independent from any previous innovations in the browser.

While removing the branding and UI-separation of Unite, and the out-of-window-ness of widgets is generally a good idea, I really do believe Opera *needs* the javascript server API (+ TLS/SSL + TCP - or at least XMPP) and proper File I/O API if the extensions system is not to stagnate along with Unite. TCP would allow torrents to be served and personal jabber servers to be had easily by anyone (which are of course completely in line with Opera's current feature-set) - and who knows what else. Having them "under one roof" would also likely improve developer interest in +/ knowledge of.

A proper OperaButtons API and maybe some kind of messaging API for the Dragonfly window similar to the extensions background page -> popup ones would also be quite nice to see under the same roof...

Originally posted by Frenzie:

Node.js is probably already halfway there. https://github.com/jacobrask/node-upnp-deviceThe Unite libraries may not require too much adaptation. https://github.com/operasoftware/unite-libraries

I suggested the reverse of that some time (... years?) ago - modularising Futhark/Carakan along with Unite's API to provide a competitor for Node.JS, Rhino, etc. - it's a rapidly growing area and one that could sorely use some competition. Particularly given the traction WebKit/V8/etc. is getting elsewhere as well, it would be a shame to seem them gain complete monopoly over the server-side JS market just as it's taking off. Suppose this is pretty inevitable now though.

Originally posted by Frenzie:

I do wonder about those claims Node.js makes about scalability and why you can't easily just use it as a CGI module for the likes of Lighttpd, nginx, or Apache

There is a CGI module for it, and you can very easily run it behind a server quite a few other ways as well. However - like Unite - node has a very easy to use event-based server API so you can run it on it's own without the overhead of lighty/apache/etc.

Originally posted by Frenzie:

Not that it should be an issue for the type of usage Unite is intended for — my connection would probably overload long before my CPU and/or RAM did.

Node's scalability claims typically revolve around high levels of concurrent operations, rather than low resource usage. i.e. - it uses a lot of RAM to run a lot of simultaneous operations, rather than queueing tasks and tying up connections for longer.

If rumors are true that Facebook is buying Opera for their mobile browser technology, I think it would be in Opera's best interest to keep Unite functioning so all the new facebook users that switch over can use it! It would be a great feature that would get quite the buzz around
FB, as it would make streaming & sharing content (music, videos, photos, etc..) incredibly easy!

To be completely honest, Unite is my sole reason for using, or even knowing about Opera. The personal interconnectivity that Unite provides is unsurpassed by any other layman's software. I've always had faith in the security of the Opera system, knowing that everything I shared with those I love would only be on my own computer where I can keep it free of the commercial eyes of Google, AOL, Yahoo, Microsoft, etc.

I run a stupid family website. File Sharing, Video Streaming, Photo Sharing, Inbox, and the Fridge, get used regularly. [The Media Player, not so much, as my taste in music doesn't seem to appeal to the rest of the family ]

I routinely help family members with their infernal Windows computers, and the number of GB of utilities, drivers, and other software I access via Unite to do so tends to be too bulky to carry around with me, so I never have it when I need it. Having access to it remotely has been an absolute Godsend!

Okay, so I'm begging! So What?! I like to beg, so there!

I do hope you find a way to keep it alive, even if you must take it out of the browser and put it into something else to do so. It doesn't even have to continue development as far as I'm concerned. It's sufficient.

I will say though, that I am quite surprised that Opera is even considering the discontinuance of Unite. Unite is one of the most unique aspects to Opera. That's what sets it apart as a desktop Internet browser. I cannot see why that idea couldn't be capitalized, unless mobile browsing is your sole future focus.

I have just wanted to set up Unite on the Opera 12 beta - and OUCH!!! Here I see, I can not do it, right?!?! Although I had not used it too often in the past, I loved it and its potential an was very happy for it when I needed it. It is very convenient service, I would greatly miss in the new opera release!!

Now I am gonna go back to use standard opera, so I could set up easy peasy download link for my friend.

Can you pls make Unite as an app or something in Opera 12??

I have just wanted to set up Unite on the Opera 12 beta - and OUCH!!! Here I see, I can not do it, right?!?! Although I had not used it too often in the past, I loved it and its potential an was very happy for it when I needed it. It is very convenient service, I would greatly miss in the new opera release!!

Now I am gonna go back to use standard opera, so I could set up easy peasy download link for my friend.

Can you please make Unite as an app or something in Opera 12??

Originally posted by jeffyork:

If rumors are true that Facebook is buying Opera for their mobile browser technology, I think it would be in Opera's best interest to keep Unite functioning so all the new facebook users that switch over can use it!

That would not be in Facebooks best interest. Opera Unite is about decentralising web services--allowing you to keep ownership of your data. Facebook wants the complete opposite. They want your data--all of it. And they want it on their servers so they can own it.

@EspenAO

I take it that you are the moderator on this forum. Greetings.
Can you give us anymore information about why Opera is making choice please and is there anyway they can be approached on this subject. Most of the gadgets were of little use, but the web server is a very important tool for anyone who wants to learn to code web pages or experiment with code. I am just finding out about Opera Unite web server, I am sure that if it is kept I can find at least 10 people to sign up with Opera just to be able to learn to code. I might even be able to offer classes.
Who, do we need to talk to?
There are ways to make Opera Unite take Opera to #1.
Be more, do more.
Think about it.
Go Opera Unite!

I'm very sad , Unite was helpful when we has photos or documents or personal short films, simple as ABC to use to send them
I return on opera 11 ...
Opera loses its charms , be carefull
if more the blogs have bugs....

Originally posted by opcat:

I return on opera 11 ...

There is no need to — Opera Unite works fine on the the latest Opera 12.00 Release Candidate. It is disabled by default now, but just click the checkbox to Enable Unite. You might need to reinstall some Unite applications.

ok thanks I keep the link ,but I have installed 11.64 , the next time I must installed Opera 12 I do it
I have upload some 'Unite' applications but it's a file "File Sharing_132_5.3.ua", I put it where ?

Go to Unite Applications and bookmark the link. Download applications for Opera 12.00. (I haven't tried it yet).

ok ! I try it

Originally posted by EspenAO:

Today we are announcing the beginning of the end for two of our current Add-on platforms. Starting with the upcoming Opera 12 release, Opera Unite and Opera Widgets will be turned off by default for new users. The two Add-on platforms will be completely removed in a later release expected before the end of this year.

We would love to hear your feedback on use cases for Opera Unite or Opera Widgets you think should be transferred to Opera extensions or other technology.

May we have an update? Is Unite and it's functionality going to be completely wiped/deleted/erased from existence? or is some of the features going to be turned into extensions somehow, someway? or will Unite continue to exist for those not updating to Opera 12?

Also does anyone know any good alternative for sharing/streaming files that has the same functionality and easy to use interface that the Web Server, File Sharing, Media Player, and Photo Sharing apps do?

Pesala
I try and "unite" is in the pannel but when I clic on install the "files sharing" and other nothing happens


jeffyork
you have a petition here
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/openoperaunited/

Opera 12 released :|

Guys install Opera 12 RC6 it will update to 12 with existing functions including unite! This only works for 32bit though.
http://my.opera.com/desktopteam/blog/2012/06/13/rc6.

This is what 260 +wanted we just need Unite servers to stay active! Continue the fight http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/openoperaunited/

Originally posted by jhilla:

Guys install Opera 12 RC6 it will update to 12 with existing functions including unite! This only works for 32bit though.
http://my.opera.com/desktopteam/blog/2012/06/13/rc6.

This is what 260 +wanted we just need Unite servers to stay active! Continue the fight http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/openoperaunited/

Finally got Home running, but I can't install any of the applications (I had removed them before...)

The opera loses the uniqueness! though I and not often used units, I after the first start noted that it isn't present more.

Originally posted by BUGS-BUNNY:

The opera loses the uniqueness! though I and not often used units, I after the first start noted that it isn't present more.

opera:config#UserPrefs|EnableUnite

opera:config#UserPrefs|EnableUnite
No
Unite is enable but you can't install "files sharing" etc

opera:config#UserPrefs|EnableUnite
No
Unite is enable but you can't install "files sharing" etc

Originally posted by opcat:

Unite is enable but you can't install "files sharing" etc

Sorry, I didn't know
I also can't open Home Page of Unite. Looks like this is just "checkbox" for old users :/

unite is dead
if anyone can make a Unite ....... bis

Originally posted by opcat:

unite is dead

Originally posted by EspenAO:

The two Add-on platforms will be completely removed in a later release expected before the end of this year.

Looks like they have in plans add required functions to API of extensions. I hope this is true

yes maybe but not 'Unite' and 'files sharing'

I love Opera Unite. At least some of unite applications should be moved to new extensions - Photo Sharing, File Sharing, WebServer, My Webcam, Media Player to name a few.
Also, I've used Operas' torrent client, I don't have any other istalled, and I was fine with it. I would like to keep it that way if possible.

the torrents in Europe are not recommanded

I have used file sharing and file inbox perhaps once a month since they were introduced. The files concerned have been related to research.The fact that the files are not permanently stored on an external server has been an important factor in choosing this method of sharing. Please keep some version of this facility working.

I use one widget (RSS Reader) every day, but since that is now a separate program, I assume it will continue to work when opera ceases to support widgets. I have not looked for new widgets for a long time and will not miss them.

Woah, I can't believe the amount of users having actually used Widgets and Unite. I never really cared about it, so I'm fine with it getting removed, making the browser lighter (thus faster?) and less irritating to new users. Many people use Opera because it's a browser above all.
Opera could make Widgets and Unite and whatever else they might remove optional downloads. That might be the best solution.

EDIT: I see people mentioning BitTorrent being removed as well, but the post doesn't say anything about it. Or am I just to stupid to read that part?

yes it works fine! I dowload iso linux with it

One widget I would miss is the ebook reader as a standalone local application. I hope the new platform developers are considering to migrate widget functionalities to can still create a standalone bare bone application, not an extension that attaches to Opera Browse.

Unlike most that voiced their opnion here, I don't really miss Unite. With monthly data traffic caps firmly over the heads of NZ home Internet users, and my habit of always hibernating/ shutting down my laptop if I'm not using it longer than 15 minutes to save electricity for the environment as well as my power bill, Unite has never been a relevant tool to me.

I know you have not the same ISP than ours ,we have no limitation
Unite is very useful , even If I use it occasionally, it is a principle of freedom and they must asked before deleting it
we keep Opera alive , right?
, the widget ... I don't use them ,except one or two

Originally posted by opcat:

we have no limitation Unite is very useful

Lucky you. But not relevant to someone like me.

Originally posted by opcat:

they must asked before deleting it

They have (in this thread). And apparently they will be replacing current Unite with an extension based system. So you will get something similar, if not the same. (On the other hand, I've a feeling standalone widgets will become the thing of the past)

Originally posted by mimi_s_mum:

They have (in this thread). And apparently they will be replacing current Unite with an extension based system. So you will get something similar, if not the same.

Interesting!

I really do hope they keep the same functionality that we current enjoy with Unite. Media Player, File Sharing, Web Server, and The Lounge, are my main Unite favorites, along with IRC from the old features.

I also like a few Widgets, Time and Date and multiWeather.

I'm talking off the top of my head here but if, IF, you could extend the API of extensions to allow them to create additional panes in the sidebar and to open in little pop-up windows it should be much easier to port the unite and widgets over. Obviously it would be an idea to only allow a few extensions to do this so the sidebar didnt get flooded ...

Okay, I got it, you're pulling the plug of the current incarnation of Unite (which, by the way, I consider never got mature). Is the new thing going to be written from scratch or is it more like Unite 2.0, but based on the Extensions API? Is it already in the works, or we'll have to wait? I'd be happy to get an answer from an inside person (read 'Opera employee').

we are waiting .....

P
L
O
P


Would it be asking too much for an Opera human to answer some of these questions?

I am old school, but this is no way to treat the people that could help you the most.

I wouldn't want for us all to feel like Opera has become the thing they were not going to be.

How much trouble is it to answer a post or two?

PLEASE?

Originally posted by WNeil:

I wouldn't want for us all to feel like Opera has become the thing they were not going to be.

Considering they still haven't answered and considering the rumors to do with facebook. I wouldn't be surprised if they had. Personally Ill be getting rid of all traces of it if they get bought by facebook, and the only advantages it has over other browsers for me are slowly diminishing as they "get rid of the bulk"...

Please! Don't let the wonderful Fridge! die!

Please! Don't let the wonderful Fridge! die!

@ the only advantages it has over other browsers for me are slowly diminishing as they "get rid of the bulk"...

I agree with you
what is the difference now? the left panel ? if they do not remove it too

What I'm thinking funny is Opera is inviting the developers to do extension versions of unite apps and widgets, but this would include the Opera Team, they must have created some widgets and they created the main upps for Unite. I think the Opera Team should convert their unite apps/widgets in first to stimulate the other developers to do the same.