The Browser Coming to a Media Player Near You

I don't know what the chances are we'll see them on these shores, but the new versions of Archos' wifi-enabled media players have version 9 of Opera's web browser pre-installed, and the ability to download all standard media types plus Flash.  The platform also supports Opera Widgets.

This product certainly gives the iPod Touch a run for it's money, with twice the storage, and about a USD70 lower price tag.  This kind of device-based web browsing experience will become more common, and when it to gets an always on everywhere wireless connection, it could become the main interface to the 'net for a segment of the population.

Opera is available as a free download for some platforms, but the specialised mobile versions cost money ... there is a $30 activation fee to get it going on the Archos. 

I vaguely remember mailing the company listed as Archos' distributor in Japan about a unit I was interested in about three years ago, but never heard back from them.  Might be a nice time to raise awareness here.  (They might also like to fix the product links on their website!)

Original Article: Opera 9 Browser To Power Archos Media Players