News

Opera Software refines '`kiosk mode'

October 14, 2003

OSLO, Norway -- Opera Software ASA, which has developed an updated Web browser for Windows, has revved up another release that runs across most operating systems, and has a special mode for kiosks.

According to an article in eWeek, Opera 7.21 was launched this week and runs on Windows, Linux, FreeBSD and Sun Solaris. The release provides a feature for undoing the accidental closing of a browser window and reintroduces a kiosk mode to restrict access to functionality when running the browser in a library, computer lab or other public setting.

"Browser-making is our only business," said Opera CEO Jon S. von Tetzchner, in a statement. "Delivering the very best Internet experience possible is simply our bread and butter."

Opera is one of the few commercial browser makers taking on Microsoft Corp.'s dominance in the space with Internet Explorer, the article said. While continuing to launch new features in its desktop browser, Opera has focused much of its attention on browsers for smart phones and devices.

The latest release brings back the kiosk mode that was part of Opera 6. The mode lets managers customize the browser settings to control the functionality, menus, downloads and other preferences available to users in high-use settings. The software is now available, according to the article.