Opera has launched the "Web 3-ready" browser for Android, which integrates numerous crypto and blockchain features. It integrates a crypto wallet, provides support for Ethereum (ETH) and interactions with decentralized applications (DApps). The launch was announced at the Hard Fork Decentralized event in London.
Charles Hamel, product manager of Crypto Opera, said:
"The new product aims to eliminate the" friction "involved with crypto online use and Web 3 accessing through special applications or extensions in an attempt to make emerging technologies more accessible."
Hamel also explained that they have opted for Ethereum and the Ethereum Web3 API because there is a perception that the protocol "has the largest community of developers building Dapps" and a "significant boost" in the back.
Krystian Kolondra, executive vice president of Opera browsers, said the decision was an attempt to
"Accelerate the passage of crypto from speculation and investment to uses for actual payments and transactions in our users' daily lives."
Opera announced in early August that it will integrate a built-in crypto wallet for its desktop browser. The mobile version of the Web-3 ready brochure has been in beta testing since July.
In September, the company launched an interoperable "Labs" beta for Android with integrated wallet, Web 3.0 and DApp. Also this month, Opera has signed a partnership with the Ledger Capital blockchain consultancy and financial services firm. The purpose of the collaboration is to explore possible blockchain applications within its products and ecosystem.
"Web 3.0" is a term that was initially conceived to refer to the ambition to develop a new type of semantic internet. The concept is increasingly used to refer to the evolution of a smarter, open and distributed Internet. The new network involves the use of blockchain technology, decentralized computing systems and digital coins.
"[Opera] I think all browsers will eventually integrate a crypto wallet model, which will allow the launch of new business models on the web"
Hamel said.