Taiwan's Alpha Networks selects Opera to complete its HD IP set-top box

OSLO, Norway — Opera Software today announced that Alpha Networks Inc. (spin-off of the OEM/ODM business unit of D-Link Corp.), a global leader in the networking industry, selected Opera Devices SDK to deliver the Internet to its new high-definition IP set-top boxes, the AST series. Alpha Networks replaced its previous browser technology with the Opera Devices SDK in order to bring a superior Web experience to users of the AST series.

As one of the largest networked device manufacturers in Taiwan, Alpha Networks specializes in innovative solutions for the digital home. Opera Devices SDK has been fine-tuned for TV, resulting in a speedy surfing session that remains rich in features. Opera Devices SDK is based on the same core as Opera Desktop and delivers the full Web, as well as easy navigation and intuitive formatting for TVs.

“More and more people are discovering the ease of surfing the full Web from their TVs. It just makes sense,” said James Wei, Senior Vice President Asia, Opera Software. “Not just anybody can deliver a browser technology that is optimized for this type of platform and, our customers do not sacrifice quality when transitioning from Opera on their computers to Opera on their flat screens.”

Full-fledged Internet browsing on set-top boxes has become increasingly important for Alpha Networks customers, including operators and service providers. With Opera, the AST series will open the door to must-have sites such as Google and Amazon, from the convenience of the TV screen.

“We required a browser that would take Alpha Networks to the next level, rather than simply remaining a standard set-top box of today,” said Tim Kang, CTO, Alpha Networks Inc. “Opera enhanced our product by upgrading the Web experience to a level that will exceed customer expectations. Opera ensures that we give our customers the full Internet in an easy-to-use format without sacrificing quality or standards.”