Opera Software announced a deal with Virgin Mobile USA to offer the popular mobile browser, Opera Mini, as a free download via the VirginXL download storefront. At the same time, Virgin wowed to pre-install Opera Mini on its future handsets.
Starting April 14, 2009, this service will be available on eight Virgin Mobile USA handsets including the Slash from Samsung, and the Arc, Shuttle and Super Slice — giving Opera “an opportunity to spread its footprint in the United States.”
Both parties seem satisfied with the deal. Opera Software’s CEO, Jon S. von Tetzchner, is satisfied to “reach Virgin Mobile USA’s large customer base in the United States.” On its end, Virgin Mobile USA’s Doug Britt noted that their customers expect complete Internet browsing from their phone, and “Opera Mini delivers the mobile browsing experience our customers demand.”
If you remember, Helio (now part of Virgin Mobile USA) was the first U.S. carrier that offered Opera Mini for its once popular Ocean phone.