Opera Launches their Dedicated Crypto Browser

Opera has launched its Web3 Crypto Browser into beta, integrated with features such as a crypto wallet, easy access to cryptocurrency and NFT exchanges, support for decentralized apps(IE: dApps) and more. The aim is to “simplify the Web3 user experience that is often bewildering for mainstream users,” Opera EVP Jorgen Arnensen said in a statement.

One of the key features is the built-in non-custodial wallet that will support blockchains including Ethereum, Bitcoin, Celo and Nervos from the get-go. It also announced partnerships with Polygon and others. The idea is that one can access their crypto without any need for extensions, additionally allowing for third-party wallets as well. You can purchase cryptocurrencies via a fiat to the crypto on-ramp, swap crypto directly in your wallet, send and receive it and check your wallet balance. It even has a secure clipboard that ensures other apps can’t scan what you copy/paste.

Another function is support for Web3, also known as blockchain-based decentralized internet, the buzzy new thing among crypto-enthusiasts. On top of providing extra security via blockchain encryption, it allows users to access things like GameFi “where you can earn as you play through all sorts of metaverses,” Opera notes. It additionally offers a “Crypto Corner” with the latest blockchain news that also “lets you grow your Web3 skills,” according to Opera.

Opera’s rival Mozilla also recently announced that it would accept cryptocurrency donations, but received much backlash from users including co-founder Jamie Zawinski over the environmental impact of a blockchain. Likely knowing this, Opera claimed to be working on the more energy-efficient Etherium Layer 2 standard “As quickly as possible.”

Opera isn’t the only company hopping on the blockchain train. Companies such as Ubisoft were hit by the same, relentless criticism when they too announced the implementation of cryptocurrency and NFTs into their platforms. Though, at least with Opera, this decision is only relevant to its browser, among the regular Opera browser, and the gamer-dedicated Opera GX browser.