The Opera Mini browser has been a popular choice for mobile users worldwide, especially in regions with limited internet connectivity. However, there has been a growing concern about the browser’s origins and ownership. In this article, we will delve into the history of Opera Mini, its current ownership, and the implications of its Chinese connection.
A Brief History of Opera Mini
Opera Mini was first released in 2005 by the Norwegian company Opera Software ASA. The browser was designed to provide a fast and efficient browsing experience on mobile devices, which were limited by slow internet speeds and small screens at the time. Opera Mini’s innovative compression technology allowed users to access web pages quickly, even on 2G networks.
Opera’s Early Success
Opera Mini quickly gained popularity, especially in emerging markets where mobile internet was becoming increasingly accessible. The browser’s user base grew rapidly, and by 2010, Opera Mini had become one of the most widely used mobile browsers in the world.
The Acquisition by Golden Brick Capital
In 2016, Opera Software ASA was acquired by a consortium of Chinese investors, led by Golden Brick Capital Private Equity Fund I Limited Partnership. The acquisition was valued at approximately $600 million. As a result, Opera Mini, along with other Opera products, became a part of the Chinese-owned company.
Implications of the Acquisition
The acquisition of Opera Software ASA by Golden Brick Capital raised concerns about the browser’s data security and potential ties to the Chinese government. Some users worried that their browsing data could be compromised or shared with Chinese authorities.
Opera Mini’s Current Ownership Structure
After the acquisition, Opera Software ASA was rebranded as Opera Limited. The company is now listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol OPRA. While Opera Limited is a publicly traded company, its largest shareholders are still Chinese investors, including Golden Brick Capital and other entities.
Key Shareholders
Some of the key shareholders of Opera Limited include:
- Golden Brick Capital Private Equity Fund I Limited Partnership (14.1% stake)
- Keeneye Investments Ltd. (10.3% stake)
- Yong Li (6.3% stake)
- Zhou Yahui (5.6% stake)
Addressing Data Security Concerns
Opera Limited has repeatedly assured users that their data is secure and not shared with any third-party entities, including the Chinese government. The company claims to follow strict data protection policies and comply with relevant regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union.
Opera’s Data Centers
Opera Limited operates data centers in various locations around the world, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. The company claims that user data is stored in these data centers and not transmitted to China.
Conclusion
While Opera Mini is not entirely Chinese, its ownership structure and ties to Chinese investors have raised concerns about data security and potential implications. However, Opera Limited has assured users that their data is secure and not compromised.
Recommendations for Users
If you are concerned about the security of your browsing data, consider the following:
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic.
- Choose a browser with a strong track record of data security, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
- Be cautious when sharing sensitive information online.
Ultimately, the decision to use Opera Mini or any other browser depends on your individual needs and concerns. By understanding the browser’s history, ownership structure, and data security policies, you can make an informed decision about your online browsing experience.
Additional Resources
For more information about Opera Mini and its data security policies, visit the Opera Limited website. You can also explore other browsers and their features to find the best fit for your needs.
| Browser | Data Security Features |
|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Incognito mode, encryption, and regular security updates |
| Mozilla Firefox | Private browsing mode, tracking protection, and encryption |
| Opera Mini | Data compression, encryption, and private browsing mode |
By staying informed and taking steps to protect your online security, you can enjoy a safe and efficient browsing experience with Opera Mini or any other browser of your choice.
Is Opera Mini a Chinese browser?
Opera Mini is not a Chinese browser. Although the company behind Opera Mini, Opera Software ASA, was acquired by a Chinese consortium in 2016, the browser itself is developed by a team based in Norway and Poland. The acquisition led to concerns about data security and censorship, but Opera Software ASA has maintained that it operates independently and adheres to European data protection standards.
Despite the change in ownership, Opera Mini remains a popular choice for users worldwide, particularly in regions with limited internet connectivity. The browser’s data compression technology and offline mode make it an attractive option for users with slow or unreliable internet connections. Opera Software ASA continues to develop and update Opera Mini, ensuring that it remains a secure and reliable browsing option for users.
Who owns Opera Software ASA?
Opera Software ASA is owned by a consortium of Chinese investors, including Golden Brick Silk Road Fund Management, Qiming Venture Partners, and Kunlun Tech. The consortium acquired a majority stake in Opera Software ASA in 2016 for approximately $600 million. However, the company’s management and development teams remain based in Norway and Poland, and Opera Software ASA operates independently.
The acquisition has raised concerns about data security and censorship, particularly given China’s strict internet regulations. However, Opera Software ASA has maintained that it adheres to European data protection standards and operates independently of its Chinese owners. The company has also stated that it does not collect or store user data, and that its browsers are designed to provide a secure and private browsing experience.
Is Opera Mini safe to use?
Opera Mini is generally considered safe to use. The browser has a strong track record of security, and Opera Software ASA regularly updates it with the latest security patches and features. Opera Mini also includes a range of security features, including encryption, phishing protection, and malware scanning. Additionally, the browser’s data compression technology helps to reduce the risk of data breaches by minimizing the amount of data transmitted over the internet.
However, as with any browser, there are some potential risks to using Opera Mini. The browser’s data compression technology can sometimes cause issues with website compatibility, and some users have reported problems with tracking cookies and online privacy. Additionally, the browser’s ownership by a Chinese consortium has raised concerns about data security and censorship. However, Opera Software ASA has maintained that it operates independently and adheres to European data protection standards.
Does Opera Mini collect user data?
Opera Mini does not collect or store user data. The browser is designed to provide a secure and private browsing experience, and Opera Software ASA has stated that it does not collect or store user data. The browser’s data compression technology helps to minimize the amount of data transmitted over the internet, reducing the risk of data breaches.
However, like all browsers, Opera Mini does collect some anonymous data, such as usage statistics and crash reports. This data is used to improve the browser and fix bugs, but it is not linked to individual users. Opera Software ASA has also stated that it does not share user data with third parties, and that it adheres to European data protection standards.
Can I use Opera Mini in China?
Yes, Opera Mini can be used in China. Although the browser is not as popular in China as some other browsers, it is available for download and can be used to access the internet. However, users in China should be aware that the browser may be subject to censorship and restrictions, particularly when accessing sensitive or blocked content.
Opera Software ASA has stated that it does not censor content or block websites, but the Chinese government may block or restrict access to certain websites or content. Users in China may also experience issues with website compatibility or online privacy, particularly if they are using a virtual private network (VPN) or other circumvention tools.
Is Opera Mini available for desktop?
Yes, Opera Mini is available for desktop. Although the browser is primarily designed for mobile devices, it can also be used on desktop computers. The desktop version of Opera Mini offers many of the same features as the mobile version, including data compression, offline mode, and security features.
However, the desktop version of Opera Mini is not as popular as some other browsers, and it may not offer the same level of compatibility or functionality as other desktop browsers. Additionally, the browser’s data compression technology may not be as useful on desktop computers, which often have faster internet connections.
What are the alternatives to Opera Mini?
There are several alternatives to Opera Mini, including other mobile browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and UC Browser. These browsers offer many of the same features as Opera Mini, including data compression, security features, and offline mode. However, they may not offer the same level of compatibility or functionality as Opera Mini, particularly in regions with limited internet connectivity.
Other alternatives to Opera Mini include desktop browsers such as Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Tor Browser. These browsers offer a range of features and functionality, including security features, website compatibility, and online privacy. However, they may not be as suitable for mobile devices or regions with limited internet connectivity.