Whilst Apple has decided not to add support for Adobe Flash in the new Apple iPad, and has tried to steer a number of its content partners for the iPad towards HTML 5 instead of Flash, Google [GOOG] has just announced that its Chrome browser will feature integrated Flash.
It also looks like Flash will be integrated into Google’s Chrome OS, which means you won’t have to download a Flash plugin for the browser of the Chrome OS.
Instead, Adobe Flash will work straight away when you install the Google Chrome browser of the Google Chrome OS. This could mean that if Google releases their own tablet, it will have an exclusive feature that the Apple iPad won’t.
The Implications for Users and Developers
This could be good news for Adobe as well as Google, as it may entice users to their browser and their Chrome OS platform, as a lot of websites use Adobe’s Flash and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. For users, this means a more seamless experience when accessing Flash-based content, such as online games, video streaming services, and interactive websites. Developers who have invested heavily in Flash technology will also benefit, as they won’t need to rewrite their content in HTML5 immediately.
Moreover, Google’s decision to integrate Flash directly into Chrome could simplify the user experience by eliminating the need for additional plugins. This could potentially reduce security vulnerabilities associated with third-party plugins and ensure that users always have the latest version of Flash, as updates would be managed through the browser itself.
Comparing Apple’s and Google’s Strategies
Apple’s decision to exclude Flash from its devices has been a point of contention. Steve Jobs famously criticized Flash for its performance issues, security vulnerabilities, and high power consumption. Instead, Apple has been a strong proponent of HTML5, which is seen as a more modern and efficient alternative to Flash. HTML5 offers many of the same capabilities as Flash, such as video playback and interactive content, but with better performance and security.
On the other hand, Google’s approach seems to be more inclusive. By integrating Flash into Chrome, Google is acknowledging the significant amount of Flash content still prevalent on the web. This strategy could attract users who rely on Flash-based websites and applications, providing them with a more versatile browsing experience.
If Google were to release its own tablet, the inclusion of Flash could be a significant selling point. Users who are frustrated by the lack of Flash support on the iPad might find a Google tablet more appealing. This could potentially shift some market share away from Apple, especially among users who frequently access Flash content.
In conclusion, Google’s decision to integrate Flash into its Chrome browser and Chrome OS is a strategic move that could benefit both users and developers. It provides a more seamless and secure browsing experience while acknowledging the continued relevance of Flash content. As the web continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the competition between HTML5 and Flash plays out, and how companies like Apple and Google adapt their strategies accordingly.
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