Unveiling the Mysterious Owners of the Opera Browser

Unveiling the Mysterious Owners of the Opera Browser

The Opera Browser has long been known for its innovative features and unique design, making it a favorite among tech enthusiasts. However, despite its popularity, many users remain unaware of the mysterious figures behind the development of this browser. In this article, we will explore the origins and ownership of the Opera Browser, shedding light on who owns it, how the browser has evolved over the years, and what this means for its future.

Introduction: The Origins of Opera Browser

Opera Browser, first launched in 1995, quickly gained recognition for its speed, security features, and a range of tools that were ahead of its time. Developed initially by a small Norwegian software development company called Opera Software ASA, the browser grew from a niche product to one that was loved by users worldwide. Over the years, it has introduced groundbreaking features like the first pop-up blocker, integrated email client, and built-in VPN.

But who owns the Opera Browser today? The journey to its current ownership is a tale of corporate shifts, strategic acquisitions, and global interest in the software market. Let’s dive into the history and uncover the story behind Opera’s ownership.

The Changing Ownership of Opera Browser

The ownership of Opera Browser has shifted a few times since its inception, and understanding this evolution is key to understanding its current standing in the browser market.

The Early Days and Opera Software ASA

Opera Software ASA, the company behind the browser, was founded by Jon von Tetzchner and Geir Ivarsøy in Norway. The duo had a vision of creating a browser that could run on all platforms, offering speed and security features that were cutting-edge for the time.

Opera Software’s early funding came from private investors, and the company was publicly listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange in 2004. Throughout the years, Opera Software grew its market share, mainly in Europe, but struggled to compete with giants like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. Despite this, Opera kept innovating, introducing features that helped carve a niche for itself, such as the built-in ad blocker and the ability to run on low-resource devices.

Acquisition by a Chinese Consortium

In 2016, Opera Software sold its desktop and mobile browser business to a Chinese consortium led by Qihoo 360, a company known for its internet security and antivirus products. This acquisition was part of a larger move to diversify Opera’s offerings and focus on other areas, including mobile browsers, advertising technology, and app development.

The deal, valued at around $600 million, raised eyebrows in the tech community, especially considering Opera’s prominent status in the browser market. Many wondered whether the change in ownership would affect the browser’s direction, especially its focus on privacy and user-centric features.

The Current Owners and Opera’s Parent Company

Today, the Opera Browser is owned by a company known as Opera Limited, which operates under a holding structure that includes various subsidiaries involved in technology and internet services.

Opera Limited is based in the Cayman Islands and has its operational headquarters in Norway. The majority of the company’s shares are now controlled by Chinese investors, with the largest stakeholder being the Chinese technology giant Qihoo 360, who holds a significant stake in the business. Qihoo 360’s parent company, Golden Brick Silk Road Fund, manages the Opera investment, further consolidating the browser’s ownership in the hands of Chinese investors.

What Does Opera’s Ownership Mean for Users?

The shift in ownership has raised questions about the future of the Opera Browser, particularly regarding data privacy, security, and whether the browser will continue to prioritize the needs of its users. Here’s a closer look at some of the most important aspects:

• Data Privacy and Security: Given the growing concern over data privacy in the tech world, many users are curious about how the Chinese ownership affects Opera’s stance on user data. While Opera continues to advertise itself as a privacy-friendly browser, offering built-in VPN services and ad-blocking features, there remains skepticism around its ownership structure.
• Innovative Features: Opera has maintained its reputation as a browser that listens to its users, constantly innovating with new features like a free VPN, a built-in cryptocurrency wallet, and an integrated news feed. These features reflect Opera’s commitment to offering something unique in a crowded browser market.
• Integration with Chinese Ecosystem: As part of its relationship with Qihoo 360, Opera has become increasingly integrated into China’s growing internet ecosystem. Some of this integration has sparked concern among international users, especially with regard to censorship and surveillance. However, Opera has continued to cater to its global audience with various localized versions of the browser.

Opera Browser Features and Benefits

Despite concerns about its ownership, Opera Browser continues to stand out for several innovative features that set it apart from its competitors. Here are some of the key benefits of using Opera:

• Free VPN: Opera is one of the few browsers that offer a completely free VPN, providing an additional layer of privacy for users browsing the web. This feature has been especially popular with users concerned about online tracking and censorship.
• Battery Saving Mode: Opera’s Battery Saver mode helps extend battery life, making it a great choice for users on laptops or mobile devices.
• Integrated Cryptocurrency Wallet: Opera was one of the first mainstream browsers to integrate a cryptocurrency wallet, allowing users to manage their crypto assets directly from the browser.
• Customizable User Interface: Opera offers a wide range of customization options, letting users personalize their browsing experience with themes, extensions, and layout options.
• Integrated News and Social Media: Opera allows users to stay updated on news and social media directly through the browser, streamlining their online experience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Opera Browser

If you’re new to Opera Browser and want to experience these unique features, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install it on your device:

1. Step 1: Visit the official Opera website: www.opera.com
2. Step 2: Click the “Download” button for the appropriate version (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
3. Step 3: Once the installer is downloaded, open the file to begin the installation process.
4. Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
5. Step 5: Launch the Opera Browser and begin exploring its features!

Troubleshooting Tips for Opera Browser

If you encounter any issues while using Opera Browser, here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve common problems:

• Opera Not Loading: Try restarting the browser or your device. If the issue persists, clear the browser cache or reinstall the browser.
• VPN Not Working: Ensure that your VPN is enabled in the browser settings. If the VPN is still not functioning, check your internet connection or try connecting to a different VPN server.
• Slow Performance: Disable unnecessary extensions or use the “Turbo Mode” for faster browsing. You can also update Opera to the latest version.
• Privacy Settings: If you’re concerned about data privacy, ensure that your security settings are properly configured, such as enabling the ad blocker and using the free VPN feature.

Conclusion: What the Future Holds for Opera Browser

The Opera Browser has come a long way since its early days in Norway. Despite the change in ownership and the ongoing questions about its future, Opera continues to innovate, offering privacy features, unique tools, and a customizable user experience that appeals to a diverse global audience. With its focus on security, performance, and user needs, Opera is positioning itself as a strong contender in an increasingly crowded browser market.

While its ownership may raise concerns for some, Opera’s long-standing reputation for user-focused design and cutting-edge features should not be overlooked. Whether or not the Chinese ownership structure will impact its future remains to be seen, but for now, Opera Browser remains a solid choice for users looking for something different from the usual browser options.

If you’re looking to explore Opera’s features further, you can visit their official website or check out more detailed reviews online at Opera’s official website for the latest updates and innovations.

This article is in the category News and created by BrowserMaster Team