Xandros, the leading developer of easy-to-use Linux solutions, and Opera Software today announced that the new Open Circulation Edition of the Xandros Desktop operating system (OS) will be the first Linux desktop distribution to offer Opera as the default browser. The freely distributable OS offers the unique Xandros desktop Linux experience to millions of users around the world.

"Undoubtedly the browser is the most used application on computers today, and Opera has long been considered a leading innovator in browser technology," said Dr. Frederick H. Berenstein, Xandros Chairman and CTO. "Opera offers remarkable speed and unique features beautifully coded in a small package that adheres to Web standards."

"We've all seen the rave reviews about how Xandros finally delivers on the promise of Linux to provide a compelling alternative to Microsoft's Windows," says Jon S. von Tetzchner, Opera co-founder and CEO. "Together with Opera, the Xandros Open Circulation Desktop will excite millions around the world and demonstrate what is possible today using the very best in computing technologies."

Starting today, the Open Circulation Desktop OS can be freely downloaded from the Xandros web site. For details and download links, please visit www.xandros.com/products/home/desktopoc/dsk_oc_intro.html

About Opera Software ASA
Opera Software ASA is an industry leader in the development of Web browser technology, targeting the desktop, smartphone, PDA, iTV and vertical markets. Partners include companies such as IBM, Nokia, Sony, Motorola, Adobe, Macromedia, Symbian, Canal+ Technologies, Sony Ericsson, Kyocera, Sharp, Motorola Metroworks, MontaVista Software, BenQ, Sendo and AMD. The Opera browser has received international recognition from users, industry experts and media for being faster, smaller and more standards-compliant than other browsers. Learn more about Opera at www.opera.com

About Xandros
Founded in 2001 with headquarters in New York and research and development facilities in Ottawa, Xandros, Inc. is the leading developer of easy-to-use Linux solutions targeting home and enterprise markets. Xandros pioneered a low-cost alternative operating system that provides seamless compatibility with Microsoft Windows programs and networks. For more information please visit www.xandros.com