Yesterday we told you that the Motorola Xoom would launch later this week without Adobe Flash, and now Adobe has responded to the news and announced that the Xoom will get Flash 10.2 within the next few weeks.
Adobe will offer Flash Player 10.2 preinstalled on some tablets and as an OTA download on others within a few weeks of Android 3 (Honeycomb) devices becoming available, the first of which is expected to be the Motorola Xoom.
So if you buy a Xoom tablet later this week it looks like you will have to wait for a couple of weeks before you can use Flash on this new Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablet.
Understanding the Importance of Flash on Tablets
Flash has been a significant component in web browsing for many years, enabling rich multimedia content such as videos, games, and interactive applications. For many users, the absence of Flash on a new device can be a considerable drawback. The Motorola Xoom, being one of the first tablets to run on Android 3.0 Honeycomb, is designed to offer a robust multimedia experience. However, the initial lack of Flash support could limit the device’s functionality in accessing a wide range of web content.
Adobe’s announcement that Flash 10.2 will be available within a few weeks is reassuring for potential Xoom buyers. Flash 10.2 promises enhanced performance, including better battery life and smoother video playback, which are crucial for mobile devices. This update will ensure that users can fully enjoy the web’s multimedia offerings without compromise.
What to Expect from Flash 10.2 on the Motorola Xoom
Flash 10.2 is not just a minor update; it brings several new features and improvements that will significantly enhance the user experience on the Motorola Xoom. One of the key features is Stage Video, which offers a full hardware acceleration of video playback. This means that videos will run more smoothly and efficiently, reducing the strain on the device’s processor and battery.
Another important aspect of Flash 10.2 is its improved text rendering capabilities. This will make reading text within Flash applications clearer and more readable, which is particularly beneficial for educational and professional applications. Additionally, Flash 10.2 includes support for custom native mouse cursors, which can enhance the interactivity of games and other applications.
For developers, Flash 10.2 offers new APIs that allow for more sophisticated and responsive applications. This means that we can expect to see a new wave of innovative Flash-based applications designed specifically for tablets like the Motorola Xoom.
In the meantime, users who purchase the Xoom will have to rely on HTML5 and other web technologies for their multimedia needs. While HTML5 is increasingly popular and capable, it does not yet match the ubiquity and versatility of Flash. Therefore, the arrival of Flash 10.2 will be a welcome addition for many users.
via Droid Life
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