New AI-centric browser with its own engine, Opera One for iOS, coming soon following Apple’s DMA announcement

January 26th, 2024

Today was a big day, with Apple deciding to finally allow alternative browsers to compete for iOS users on equal terms as a result of the requirements of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).

The opening of the iOS ecosystem is a new opportunity for us to innovate further and usher in the innovative AI-centric browser experience iPhone and iPad users truly deserve with a full engine, AI-powered web browser. With the DMA entering into force in March 2024, this new browser will be presented in the months to come.

Opera has been innovating in the browser AI space since early 2023. We have now introduced the Aria browser AI to all of our key products and completely redesigned our flagship desktop browser, the AI-centric Opera One. Already in 2024 we have plans to take this even further.

“As the leading European browser developer, we embrace the changes introduced through the DMA, aimed at fostering competition and offering users a more diverse selection of browsers on iOS. We intend to deliver on this with the AI-centric Opera One for iOS,” said Jørgen Arnesen, our EVP Mobile. “Furthermore, we are excited to see the confirmation that Apple will also implement a browser choice screen for iOS, making it easier for users to choose their favorite browser as default also on their mobile devices.”

The EU DMA is a European law and we’re excited to see such a key region open up. Beyond that, Opera strongly encourages Apple to implement these augmented freedoms to iOS users around the globe.

Though we currently have an award-winning browser for iOS, the opening of the iOS ecosystem to alternative browser engines allows for us to create truly unique products that will improve and enhance your online experience.

“Beyond the new frameworks and APIs for alternative browser engines, we are also very excited about the new interoperability request form Apple announced, that will allow developers to submit additional requests for interoperability with iPhone and iOS hardware and software features,” added Arnesen. “We applaud the directional changes and can’t wait to showcase the new Opera One for iOS that will put AI in focus.”

To back up the new browser development, we’ll soon be making a new announcement regarding a major investment in a key AI infrastructure project in Europe.