I got tired of moving these files around by hand, so I decided to cook up a batch file that automates the process. You can grab it here: https://1drv.ms/u/s!Aig3l4twxcKyz3FszC9VS-22q6rK

Just run it, allow it administrator access, select the right folder and bam: no more sponsored search engines.

The administrator access is needed to mess around in Program Files (x86). If you have disabled UAC this prompt might be unnecessary, though I'm not sure.

If you're still on a 32-bit OS you'll have to edit the batch file (right click > Edit) and remove the (x86) from Program Files (x86).

Credits:
The folder browser
The administrator prompt

Enjoy (and let's hope the devs don't find out about this).

I looked for a suggestion forum, could you move the thread there?

It's no big thing, but the theme selector (in the speed dial side menu) doesn't look right to me as it is. The pictures are small and the list feels crowded. Maybe showing two pictures instead of three would give them a bit more room.

Also, why does the list include themes I haven't downloaded? I haven't downloaded them for a reason. Selecting themes might be easier this way, but since the pictures are small most people probably just click 'Get more themes' anyway.

I got tired of moving these files around by hand, so I decided to cook up a batch file that automates the process. You can grab it here: https://1drv.ms/u/s!Aig3l4twxcKyz3FszC9VS-22q6rK

Just run it, allow it administrator access, select the right folder and bam: no more sponsored search engines.

The administrator access is needed to mess around in Program Files (x86). If you have disabled UAC this prompt might be unnecessary, though I'm not sure.

If you're still on a 32-bit OS you'll have to edit the batch file (right click > Edit) and remove the (x86) from Program Files (x86).

Credits:
The folder browser
The administrator prompt

Enjoy (and let's hope the devs don't find out about this).

Probably. I noticed a few days ago that Yahoo had replaced my Youtube keyword again... So either they fixed the loophole, or you'll have to re-apply the fix once in a while.

@thatism3 I skipped the renaming. Works like a charm, thanks!

@thatism3 If I delete the default_partner_content.json in the profile directory, Opera fails to launch, saying that a '.pak file' is corrupt.

Shit. Seems we're out of luck. Thanks for the info anyway.

In a year-old post here user l33t4opera describes a way to remove the default search engines. Like the OP in said thread, I'd like to free up the 'y' keyword so I can use it for Youtube.

Well, I followed the instructions and renamed default_partner_content.json. After reloading the browser, however, nothing changes. I tried deleting the file as well, and it isn't even being replaced.

What am I doing wrong? Has Opera changed the way this is handled?