When envisioning the collaboration between Nvidia and AI, it is unlikely that Iceland and web browsers come to mind. However, Opera is breaking the mold and has recently revealed its very own Nvidia DGX SuperPOD cluster located in Iceland. This cluster will be dedicated to handling requests from the Aria AI feature incorporated in the Opera One and Opera GX browsers. Opera unveiled this project during its Browser Day event in Oslo, shedding light on the rationale behind acquiring its own AI server, which would complement its existing partnership-based infrastructure. Powered by the H100, a GPU-esque processor built on Nvidia’s Hopper architecture, the DGX SuperPOD boasts exceptional computational capabilities specifically designed for machine learning algorithms.
Opera, a renowned browser developer, introduced a generative AI component to its Opera One and GX platforms last year. The company plans to further enhance and expand the integration of Aria throughout various aspects of browser usage. Some individuals may be skeptical about the proliferation of AI in everyday software, but Opera finds itself compelled to keep pace with the industry. In the era of AI PCs, where almost every major player incorporates AI into their products, developers like Opera have little choice but to embrace this trend. However, Opera aims to differentiate itself by focusing on running small-scale models specifically aimed at enhancing browser usage and overall user experience, rather than simply creating another ChatGPT system. Ultimately, the incorporation of AI features in browsers gives end-users the option to opt-out if they so desire.
The selection of Iceland as the location for Opera’s new AI server may raise eyebrows due to the country’s remoteness, making it seem less accessible. However, Iceland offers a multitude of benefits that make it an ideal choice for hosting large compute clusters. The country possesses an abundance of low carbon energy sources and its cool climate naturally facilitates the operation of such clusters without requiring excessive air conditioning. Consequently, the operational costs are considerably reduced, a significant advantage that prompted Opera’s decision to establish its AI server in Iceland.
Opera is not the only company harnessing the power of AI in web browsers. Microsoft has its own AI-infused Edge browser, and Brave and Arc Max have also joined the generative AI movement, with the latter yet to launch a version for Windows. To further establish its credibility, Opera plans to open up its SuperPOD cluster to researchers based in Europe and the United States in the future. However, the precise details regarding access and collaboration opportunities have yet to be disclosed.
Opera’s announcement of its Nvidia DGX SuperPOD cluster in Iceland highlights the growing prominence of AI in everyday software applications. By embracing AI, Opera aims to enhance browser usage and user experiences through the implementation of small-scale models. Furthermore, the choice of Iceland as the server’s location demonstrates Opera’s commitment to sustainability and cost-efficiency. As the trend of AI integration continues, Opera’s unique approach sets it apart from other competitors in the browser space, positioning the company at the forefront of AI innovation.
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