Opera Ltd has integrated its cryptocurrency wallet into its standard desktop version.
In the near future, the Opera PC browser will utilize Opera for Android to authorize transactions. ✅ https://t.co/Z2CYJKPaWU#Cryptoforall #comingsoon #OperaCrypto pic.twitter.com/s080RvoAeb
— Opera (@opera) August 8, 2018
In July 2018, the Norwegian company launched the world’s first internet browser with a built-in cryptocurrency wallet with its Android mobile application. It did this to simplify the process of using cryptocurrency, or lower the barrier of entry, as a company statement put it at the time.
Following an "overwhelmingly positive response", the company decided to extend use to the desktop version too.
The wallet relies on the Android security system, so users do not have to store a wallet password. The desktop version will be linked to this. Users will be able to connect between the two applications by scanning a QR code with their mobile phones, in the same way the Whatsapp Web operates.
Charles Hamel, Product Lead of Opera Crypto, said: “By adding a crypto wallet directly into the browser, we removed the need for complex extensions or separate apps.”
The Opera web browser was first released in 1996 and is currently used by approximately 2.5 percent of internet surfers worldwide, or 322 million people according to the press release.
Currently, the wallet is only available in private beta mode, but is "now being gradually opened up to a larger audience."
Krystian Kolondra, Opera’s EVP Desktop, said: "Our next aim is to make crypto-integration mainstream. We believe Blockchain technology has the power to transform the web of tomorrow and expect it to make a big difference in the years to come."
Purchased by Bitcoin mining company
It emerged that Bitmain, the Chinese Bitcoin mining giant, will be purchasing $50 million worth of Opera shares during the latter's IPO.
Opera announced that it had applied to the US Securities and Exchange Commission for approval on the 29th of June. It expects to raise $115 million.
