Dolphin Browser ported to iPhone

One of Android's better-known apps, Dolphin Browser, has been given a long-requested port to the iPhone (free, App Store). The iOS version of MoboTap's software uses Apple's WebKit engine but brings features that have yet to reach Safari. It already has tabbed browsing ahead of iOS 5, a Firefox-style address bar with search results, and gesture-based shortcuts for common tasks.

The app has its own webzine mode for a Flipboard-style optimized view of the web and has a desktop mode that forces viewing full pages rather than letting mobile versions take over. Bookmarks and extra navigation options are tucked away in a swipe-activated sidebar, and an Opera-like Speed Dial feature lets those starting up the browser or opening a new tab jump to a frequently accessed page from the home screen.

So far, Dolphin is only optimized for the smaller screens of the iPhone and iPod touch, although it will run on the iPad. Any device needs iOS 4 or later.

MoboTap's release marks a rare instance of an Android app being ported to iOS. Most ports are more often from iOS to Android as developers target the larger, more easily searchable store before going to Google's smaller portal.

By Electronista Staff