Opera, the browser maker, has gone way beyond just creating a browser, and it is not shy from experimenting new things.
In past, for example, Opera has started blocking trackers, has added a built in VPN, introduced a browser dedicated for games, and many more.
Its browser is even equipped with a cryptocurrency wallet, and also allows users to send collectibles and track cryptocurrency transactions.
This time, the popular browser-maker is stepping things a notch.
And that is by introducing what it calls the 'Crypto Browser'.
Opera has officially launched the Web3-based Crypto Browser that is equipped with features such as a built-in cryptocurrency wallet, cryptocurrency/NFT exchanges shortcuts, decentralized apps support and more.
While others in the tech industry can have different interpretations of the term “Crypto Browser,” but in the case of Opera, its Web 3.0 Crypto Browser is actually a browser that can operate in a blockchain-based internet environment (hence the name Web3).
Because of this, the browser supports a number of cryptocurrency activities.
For example, the browser supports an onboard crypto wallet, in which users can store all of their cryptocurrencies, make transactions, and more. The built-in wallet supports Ethereum, Bitcoin, Celo and Nervo, with more blockchains to be included in the future.
With this solution, Opera wants users to be able to trade cryptocurrencies without the need for third-party solutions.
There’s also a special crypto-related news section in the browser called Crypto Corner, as well as shortcuts to Crypto Twitter, Discord, Reddit or DappRadar placed directly inside the browser’s speed dial.
Our take
Opera dedicates this browser to cryptocurrency enthusiasts, users of blockchain applications, owners of cryptocurrency-based tokens, and more.
The idea is to create a browser that works in a decentralized internet, with an aim to simplify the Web3 user experience that is often bewildering for mainstream users.
And here, Opera Web3 Crypto Browser is a foundation for the future widespread adoption of Web3, according to the company.
In fact, it's though this Web 3.0 support that makes this Crypto Browser from Opera an advantage over other browsers.
"Too few of the web browsing experiences offered today have been built with the intention of putting Web3 centerstage and making blockchain technologies understandable and easy to use. With the Crypto Browser Project, we have set out to change this, and starting today, we are inviting the blockchain community to join this mission," wrote Susie Batt, the lead of the Crypto Ecosystem at Opera, in the announcement.
The idea of creating a way to embrace the Web 3.0 is nothing new.
In the past, a number of projects have been made dedicated for that purpose. One of which, was the 2019's HTC Exodus 1 phone, the device made in a collaboration between HTC, Exodus crypto wallet, and Opera, among others.
And here, the Crypto Browser from Opera is yet another product that is born as the result of the crypto craze the world is experiencing.
At the same time, Opera said that it is transitioning from proof-of-work (POW) to proof-of-stake (POS), which means that instead of mining, it aims to use staking to verify new transactions, making it more eco-friendly.
“We are working towards implementing Layer 2 in our browser as quickly as possible, having already announced a partnership with Polygon and with further exciting Layer 2 partnerships to be announced in the near future,” the company said.
Initially introduced in beta, the browser is made available initially for users on Android, Windows and Mac.