Opera Launches Desktop Dapp Browser With Built-In Ethereum Wallet

Opera has officially launched the desktop version of its new browser with a built-in cryptocurrency wallet.

The browser, called “Reborn 3,” is now available for the Mac, Windows and Linux operating systems, Opera announced Tuesday. The software allows users to explore and interact with the blockchain-based decentralized applications (dapps) of "Web 3," and the wallet lets users send transactions without requiring an extension such as Metamask, the browser company said.

To enhance security, Reborn 3’s built-in wallet syncs with that of Opera's mobile Android browser, which was launched last December, Opera said.

“This means wallet keys never leave the users’ smartphones," the company said, adding: "In practice, whenever they need to identify themselves to a Web 3 website or sign a transaction on the blockchain, users get a notification on their smartphone. They can confirm it in the same way they unlock their system, using, for example, facial recognition or their fingerprint."

Opera said it is also planning to add the built-in crypto wallet feature to its iOS browser, known as Opera Touch, soon.

Oslo, Norway-based Opera first revealed the development of its Web 3 Android browser last July. The browser currently supports ether and other tokens using ethereum’s ERC-20 standard. Crypto collectibles minted under the ERC-721 standard, such as CryptoKitties, are also supported.

Earlier this year, Opera allowed Android users to buy ether directly from its browser-based wallet, in partnership with regulated cryptocurrency brokerage Safello.

Reborn 3 browser image courtesy of Opera.