Vivaldi has released version 7.9 of its desktop browser, introducing a new UI Auto-hide feature that removes the entire browser interface from view for distraction-free browsing. When enabled, the feature clears the tab bar, address bar, toolbars, and status indicators from the screen entirely, with the interface instantly returning when the cursor moves to any edge of the window.

The auto-hide functionality can be configured to hide specific elements like just the tab bar or address bar, or the full set of chrome all at once. Users can toggle the feature via the keyboard shortcut Command-F10 or through a new icon in the status bar, with all options accessible under Settings Appearance UI Auto-hide. This update also introduces Follower Tab, designed to let users explore links without losing their place on the current page.

Right-clicking a link provides the option to open it as a tiled Follower Tab, which loads the linked page side by side with the original. Subsequent links clicked in the original tab continue opening in the follower pane while the source page stays pinned in place. Vivaldi's built-in email client also receives several improvements in v7.9, including a pop-out mail composer window, a toggle between rich text and plain text modes, reduced memory usage in the mail list, improved mailing list reply routing, and the ability to save selected messages directly to disk.

Vivaldi 7.9 is available as a free download for Mac, Windows, and Linux from the Vivaldi website, continuing the browser's tradition of built-in ad and tracker blocking, extensive tab management tools, and support for Chrome extensions.