Opera launches desktop browser with built-in crypto wallet

Opera, a web browser for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, has announced the launch of the desktop version of its browser which has a built-in cryptocurrency wallet.

The company introduced the Crypto Wallet to the Opera browser for Android in December 2018. Last month, it said that the crypto wallet functionality will soon be available on iOS.

In a blog post dated April 08, Opera has now announced the launch of Opera 60, codenamed Reborn 3 – its desktop browser with Web 3, faster VPN and built-in ad blocker. It said:

“Opera now also includes Web 3-support and a Crypto Wallet, an important new feature. It allows you to browse and make transactions the blockchain-based Internet of the future, also known as Web 3. This makes Opera the first ever Web 3-ready computer browser.”

Web 3 is an umbrella term for a set of emerging technologies (cryptos, blockchain, distributed systems) which will extend the capabilities of the web.

Opera explained that the Web 3 explorer feature will enable users to access applications on the Ethereum blockchain (also known as dApps).

The Crypto Wallet will allow users to store cryptocurrency, tokens and collectibles in the Opera computer browser, which in turn, will sync with Crypto Wallet in the Opera browser for Android.

“This means wallet keys never leave your smartphone. In practice, whenever you need to identify yourself to a Web 3 website or sign a transaction on the blockchain, you will get a notification on their smartphone. You’ll be able to confirm it in the same way you unlock your system, using, for example, facial recognition or a fingerprint,” Opera added.

In February, Opera partnered with crypto brokerage firm Safello to allow users to facilitate crypto wallet top-ups with the ability to purchase Ethereum from within the browser.