Ahead of the game: Opera Introduces Native SVG Support in Desktop Release

Oslo, Norway - March 16, 2005

Opera Software ASA today released a Beta 3 version of the next Opera browser for desktop, introducing native Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG 1.1 Tiny) to further advance Web sites and applications. Opera is the first browser to natively support SVG technology as part of its continuing effort to provide the fastest, most secure and state-of-the art browser on the market.

SVG is an XML-based language for Web graphics developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). It enables Web developers to create the next generation of interactive and personalized Web applications in high-quality vector graphics instead of bitmaps, which are most often used on Web sites today. SVG can therefore be scaled to fit any screen - from small mobile devices to high-resolution printers. As opposed to proprietary vector-based Web technologies, SVG is an open, text-based standard, and can be reached and indexed by search engines. By combining SVG with existing Web standards like HTML, CSS, JavaScript and DOM, Opera is prepared to support the next generation of Web sites.

"We believe SVG will enter mainstream Web design in the future and we are very pleased to add native support in the Opera browser", says Hakon Wium Lie, CTO, Opera Software. "We will work with other vendors to ensure that SVG can be used interoperably on the Web."

"As the Internet is maturing we see that most new Web sites are no longer static displays of information, but rather complex online applications that use advanced Web technologies to enable improved interactivity, speed, and services," says Jon S. von Tetzchner, CEO, Opera Software. "It is only natural that Web browsers support Web technologies natively, rather than by having to keep adding plug-ins. By integrating SVG support, Opera continues its tradition of bringing innovation to the Web and setting the de-facto standard for Web browsers."

Opera's desktop browser has undergone dramatic improvements in performance and security, with new features such as anti-phishing technology. Native SVG 1.1 Tiny support has been integrated in Opera's Core code for the next desktop release, and will be available also on other devices shortly. The company is preparing for the launch of the final version of its next desktop browser, and the Beta 3 version is available as a free download from www.opera.com.

For a demo of native SVG support, download Opera Beta 3 and visit www.opera.com/features/svg/

Learn more about SVG at www.w3.org/Graphics/SVG/About.html

About Opera Software ASA

Opera Software ASA has redefined Web browsing for PCs, mobile phones and other networked devices. Opera's cross-platform Web browser technology is renowned for its performance, standards compliance and small size, while giving users a faster, safer and more dynamic online experience. Opera Software is headquartered in Oslo, Norway, with offices around the world. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol OPERA. Learn more about Opera at http://www.opera.com/.

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