It is a great way to lose users too. Other browsers allow this function. I don't appreciate being herded like a mindless sheep. If I want to change my default search engine I expect to be able to do so. Users being treated like mindless idiots does not serve your cause. I tried Opera for a few days and will go back to using a different browser. One that allows me control and does not assume I have no idea. This is 2014, most people are aware of security issues on the net and don't need to be mollycoddled and treated like little children.