Global telecommunications giant, Airtel and Norwegian mobile and desktop Web browser, Opera Software have partnered to launch Opera Web Pass for mobile internet users across 17 African countries where Airtel operates.

Opera Web Pass gives a new approach to pay-as-you-go mobile data. It comes in two data packages – time-based or site-based – allowing operators the freedom to choose a data package or a combination of the two on their mobile phones in a way that is suitable to their needs.

“At Opera, we believe that access to the web is a universal right. Partnering with market leaders such as Airtel has offered us the opportunity to help lower the barriers to access the mobile web and empower more African users to get online,” said Lars Boiolesen, CEO, Opera Software.

First launched in Malaysia in November 2012, the Opera Web Pass is especially suitable for mobile subscribers without data plans as it gives them the flexibility to purchase short term internet access from local carrier. It also allows operators to package their mobile internet offerings in flexible, easy to understand and marketable ways with the opportunity for users to choose an exact time or period in which to access the web instead of volume megabytes.

For example, subscribers can pick time flexibility such as an hour or day of internet use, or even quick access to individual apps like Facebook, twitter or Google+.

The software users can access this service by opening opera mini and choosing Opera Web pass in the speed dial start page after which a list of web pass subscriptions is displayed and then customers can purchase a package that suits their internet access requirements.

With Opera Web Pass, mobile internet users on the Airtel network will be able to make use of an affordable and simple pay-as-you-go service for their Airtel mobile phones, Chief Marketing Officer at Airtel Africa, Andre Beyers said.

“Opera Web Pass leverages the existing capabilities of the Opera Mini platform and allows Airtel, in a flexible and cost-efficient way, to package time- or site-specific data offerings to their users…. Opera Web Pass makes it even more compelling for subscribers to get online using their mobile phones and in a way that is tailored to their needs,” he added.