Opera Software has launched an experimental version of its web browser called Opera Neon. Available for both Mac and Windows, the browser is said to be a radical re-imagining of what a browser can be - a statement that's evident from the get-go.

As you'll no doubt see in the introduction video above, one of the underlying design elements is the shift towards circles rather than typical rectangular boxes. It also brings in your own desktop background to serve as the starting point of a new session although if that's not something you're fond of, Opera has collaborated with graphic artist Luke Choice to create a couple of free, Neon-inspired wallpapers to choose from.

Other noteworthy features include video pop-out, a split screen mode, a refreshed omnibox and a built-in snap-to-gallery tool that serves as the central location for image storage (versus tucking them away in folders).

Opera last summer sold most of its assets, including the rights to the Opera name and its web browser, to a Chinese consortium of technology companies for $600 million. Opera's future at that point was up in the air but with the introduction of Opera Neon, the new owners have demonstrated that they're willing to innovate and try new things in a market that's largely stagnant at this point.

Those interested in giving Neon a shot can download it for free over on Opera's website.