I think it would feel much nicer, sleeker and more modern if the sidebar literally was not a bar, but perhaps something like the appdrawer in MacOS (I don't know what it's called). Like a drawer, layered over the webpage that pops out when your mouse hovers over it, or maybe that the apps and buttons/functions pop out individually. Another way could be to make the black bar transparent. These suggestions could make the browser feel less cramped, more bezel less and overall just a little cooler while still providing easy access to the apps and other functions. It would also be nice to choose where the sidebar is located.

This things are small, but something I think would make opera a better browser and increase the experience. I love opera so far but in some cases I feel like it has some redesigning that needs to be done. The sidebar is one of them

Thank you for reading and I hope I brought something constructive to the table!