Norwegian browser company Opera Software said it would launch a version of its Mini browser for Apple's iPhone next week, offering faster download speeds.
Opera said the browser would offer consumers up to six times faster download speeds than Apple's own, and cut data traffic by up to 90%. Massive data traffic from iPhone mobile phones has caused problems for many operators networks.
Some analysts said Apple could try to stop rivals from access to iPhone as smooth Internet browsing has been a key feature behind the success of the iPhone.
"This is a provocative move by Opera which will result in a tricky and high profile PR exercise for Apple should it decide not to allow Opera mini through the App Store," CCS Insight analyst Geoff Blaber said.
Opera said it saw no reason why its browser, the world's most widely used on cellphones, should be rejected.
"We have not submitted it yet to the Apple App Store. However, we hope that Apple will not deny their users a choice in Web browsing experience," said Jon von Tetzchner, co-founder of Opera.
Opera shares were up 1.0 percent at 0940 GMT.
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