Opera, a web browser for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, today introduced a new version of the Opera browser that comes with built-in crypto wallet.
Charles Hamel, Product Lead of Opera Crypto, made the announcement in an online post.
The latest version, currently available in a private beta on Android, combines easy-to-use crypto wallet functionality with support for Ethereum decentralized apps (Dapps). The company plans to add support for more cryptocurrencies in the future.
“We think that with a built-in crypto wallet, the browser has the potential to renew and extend its important role as a tool to access information, make transactions online and manage users’ online identity in a way that gives them more control,” Hamel said.
“We’ve decided to support Ethereum, as it has the largest community of developers building Dapps and has gathered a lot of momentum behind it. Opera with Crypto Wallet supports the Ethereum Web3 API, making interacting with these Dapps seamless to the user.”
Opera is also supporting online payments with cryptocurrency where merchants support exists. Although the existing number of merchants accepting cryptocurrencies is limited, Opera expects this to change soon.
“Users that choose to pay for their order using cryptocurrency on Coinbase Commerce-enabled merchants will be presented with a payment request dialog, asking them for their signature. The payment will then be signed and transmitted directly from the browser,” Hamel explained.
In addition, Opera has added a “Dapp Explorer” to its browser to help users discover dapps. Opera will curate and update the dapps that appear on the explorer.
The company has also announced support for tokens and collectibles, such as CryptoKitties. Hamel said, “We’ve made sure Opera is the coziest den wallet for all of your digital cats, so don’t hesitate to make the move…we will be adding support for more ERC721 Collectibles in the coming releases.”
