Opera revealed today that it will release a new AI browser based on its own engine for iOS in Europe. The Norway-based company announced the change following news that Apple is set to allow alternative browser engines to run on iOS as a result of European Digital Market Act (DMA) requirements. The changes will allow developers to offer browsers that are not based on the WebKit browser engine.
Apple currently requires third-party browsers to use WebKit, which is the same browser engine that powers its own Safari browser. In order to comply with the DMA, Apple will begin allowing developers to submit non-WebKit-based browsers, both for web browser apps and for developers who offer in-app browsers for displaying web pages in their iOS apps .
Opera says the changes will allow it to provide iPhone users with an AI-powered Safari alternative.
“As Europe’s leading browser developer, we embrace the changes introduced through the DMA, which aim to strengthen competition and offer users a more diverse selection of browsers on iOS,” said Jørgen Arnesen, EVP Mobile at Opera, in statement. “We aim to achieve this with the AI-centric Opera One for iOS. Additionally, we’re excited to see confirmation that Apple will also implement a browser selection screen for iOS, making it easier for users to choose their favorite browser as the default on their mobile devices as well.”
Arnesen went on to note that Opera is “very excited about the new interoperability request form that Apple announced, which will allow developers to submit additional requests for interoperability with iPhone and iOS hardware and software features.”
The new browser is expected to debut in March, when DMA is set to begin. Since the changes only apply in the European Union, Opera said in a press release that it “strongly encourages Apple to apply these enhanced freedoms to iOS users around the world.”
Opera didn’t elaborate on the upcoming browser, but said it would soon announce a “major investment” in a key AI infrastructure project in Europe.
Last year, Opera introduced its artificial intelligence ‘Aria’ browser and redesigned its flagship desktop browser and called it Opera One, which will also be the name of the new iOS browser. At the time, Opera said the new browser had elements that would make it ready for a “creative AI-based future.”
