Flash on Android

Adobe Flash, aspiring for cross-device support, is reinforcing its omnipresence by making the strategic move of reaching further into mobile. On June 24 HTC announced the release of Hero, the first Android phone to support Flash – this time Flash Lite 3.1 (plays SWF files created with Flash 9 as long as ActionScript 3.0 is not involved; compatible with ActionScript 2.0). It should be noted that Flash support will not be made downloadable by other Android users.

Flash integration basically means enhanced user experience while surfing the web, with Flash video and interactive media becoming available. At present the web is characterized by considerable reliance on Flash, from games and dynamic ads to streaming video. It is hardly surprising that it is video content that receives most of the attention given the fact that the bulk of Internet video is Flash-based. With Hero users will be able to view YouTube and Yahoo videos in full-screen mode enabled by simply double-tapping the screen. The device also ensures seamless audio experience.

Since HTC has joined Open Screen Project – an industry effort aiming at making Flash-based content fully accessible across screens – more advanced steps taken with a view to integrating the new Flash 10 in FTC devices are to be expected. In the meantime, we’ll watch Adobe step up its marketing effort ensuring the Flash platform remains at the forefront - and make the relevant adjustments to the Flash/Flex development effort, of course.