Chinese mobile phone manufacturer TECNO TELECOM and web browser firm Opera Software have unveiled a partnership to offer a co-branded Opera Mini browser to TECNO users in Africa.

TECNO offers feature phones, smartphones and dual SIM handsets in Africa.

The Opera Mini browser, meanwhile, features compression technology that Opera says shrinks down web page sizes by up to 90% before they reach handsets.

“Our initiative to co-brand this well-regarded web browser is key to TECNO ensuring that the users of our phones can get connected whenever they want, as well as achieving our business development targets in Africa,” said Jason Liu, the marketing director of TECNO TELECOM, in a statement.

Lars Boilesen, chief executive officer, Opera Software, says “Africa is in the midst of a mobile-browsing transformation and mobile phones are the most important means for Africans to access the web.

“This initiative gives TECNO users in this area the advantages of a great surfing experience that is fast and affordable,” Boilesen added.

TECNO handsets are available in African markets such as Nigeria.