Ahh the not a bug bug problem with the reset to Google.
I've been following this thread since I upgraded with the pain to reset to startpage.
two days ago I spent some time going to comodo dragon and Icedragon. seems ok but more pain to learn and try to customize. Not near the easiest to customize and control as what was my favorite Opera.
Lots of time spent. But at least the cause, in my mind is now understood.
http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/2200378/opera-web-browser-keeps-its-tie-with-google
Now for the more adept I would think that there is a entry point where this can be over come? I can see the google monster dictating the minor change to keep the $ flowing to Opera. But no mater what they do I know I will not comply.
Back to the last version for me. Or next on my list is Icedragon.