Opera has announced the launch of Opera Mini 5.1 beta made specifically for Nokia's Symbian platform.

The popular mobile browser apparently offers improved fonts, significantly faster start up time and improved page load performance.

"The world's most popular mobile browser is now optimized for the world's most popular smartphone platform," states Opera.

"The native version of Opera Mini for Symbian features all the innovations Opera Mini is known for, such as Speed Dial for the users' favourite websites, tabbed browsing and an attractive user interface."

I'd Java be more specific

Opera's last offering for Symbian was only a restricted Java version, and the company is hoping that a native version will make a big difference.

"It is Opera's objective to provide its users with the best possible web-surfing experience on any device," said Christen Krogh, Chief Development Officer, Opera Software.

"Porting Opera Mini to the Symbian programming language provides the largest user base in the smartphone world with the best mobile browsing experience."

The free browser is available for download at m.opera.com

Virgin Media is celebrating the announcement of its 100Mb/s broadband by offering a fleet of ultrafast taxis – giving Londoners the chance to hitch a ride in a Ferrari, Porsche or Aston Martin.

Gimmick it may be, but Virgin Media's decision to pimp out three supercars as Hackney Carriages will give the public the chance to ride in style on Thursday – free of charge.

Jon James, executive director of Broadband at Virgin Media said, "With today's announcement of our new 100Mb service, we wanted to do something fun and iconic to celebrate.

"Our fleet of Ultrafast Taxis rolling out in London tomorrow will provide commuters a bit of excitement to liven up their day and the opportunity to get a taste of life in the fast lane courtesy of Virgin Media."

Traffic management

Of course, the more cynical may suggest that by stretching the metaphor, Virgin Media is opening itself up for jokes about traffic management.

And we're hoping that the 100Mb/s experience is a little smoother (and faster) than central London's road system.

Still, if you fancy a ride in a Porsche 997 Turbo Gen 1, Ferrari 430 F1 Coupe or an Aston Martin DBS, then keep your eyes peeled between 10am and 4pm.