Unfortunately for users of Skyfire on either Symbian and Windows Mobile devices, Skyfire will be stopping support and shutting down the servers on December 31st, 2010.
Skyfire issued a press release this morning explaining the reasons behind the move and what users can expect in the new version of the Skyfire 2.0 browser.
Press release:
Skyfire 2.0 is the world’s first hybrid browser, using the best of the device’s native browser, and adding a cloud “booster engine” for extra features like video and social networking. It is our flagship go-forward product, as we’ve reported publicly for months, since our Android launch.
With that in mind, we are announcing that we will complete the phase out of our legacy v1.0 product on Windows Mobile and Symbian on December 31st, 2010 for remaining countries. This two-year-old product used a “proxy browser” approach which is no longer our vision. It was a revolutionary product when introduced and offered for free, but the fast-moving mobile market has changed significantly since 2007, and as a small tech start-up, we need to keep innovating forward.
The Evolution of Skyfire
Skyfire has always been at the forefront of mobile browsing technology. When it was first introduced, the Skyfire 1.0 browser was revolutionary. It utilized a “proxy browser” approach, which allowed users to access rich media content, such as videos and Flash, that was otherwise inaccessible on many mobile devices at the time. This was a significant breakthrough, especially for users of Symbian and Windows Mobile devices, which were popular platforms in the late 2000s.
However, the mobile landscape has evolved dramatically since then. The introduction of more advanced mobile operating systems like iOS and Android, along with the rapid development of mobile hardware, has rendered many older technologies obsolete. Skyfire recognized this shift and decided to focus its efforts on developing a more advanced browser that could leverage the capabilities of modern devices.
Skyfire 2.0: A New Era in Mobile Browsing
Skyfire 2.0 represents a significant leap forward in mobile browsing technology. Unlike its predecessor, Skyfire 2.0 is a hybrid browser that combines the best features of the device’s native browser with a powerful cloud-based “booster engine.” This innovative approach allows Skyfire 2.0 to offer enhanced features such as improved video playback, faster page loading times, and integrated social networking capabilities.
One of the standout features of Skyfire 2.0 is its ability to optimize video content. By leveraging cloud computing, Skyfire 2.0 can compress and adapt video streams in real-time, ensuring smooth playback even on slower networks. This is particularly beneficial for users who frequently watch videos on their mobile devices, as it reduces buffering and improves overall viewing quality.
In addition to video optimization, Skyfire 2.0 also offers a range of social networking features. Users can easily share web content on popular social media platforms, view their friends’ updates, and even receive personalized recommendations based on their browsing habits. This integration of social networking into the browsing experience sets Skyfire 2.0 apart from other mobile browsers and makes it a valuable tool for users who want to stay connected while on the go.
The decision to phase out support for the legacy Skyfire 1.0 browser on Symbian and Windows Mobile devices was not made lightly. Skyfire acknowledges the impact this will have on its users but believes that focusing on the development of Skyfire 2.0 is the best way to continue delivering innovative and high-quality browsing experiences. By concentrating resources on the new browser, Skyfire aims to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly changing mobile market.
In conclusion, while the end of support for Skyfire 1.0 marks the end of an era, it also heralds the beginning of a new chapter in mobile browsing with Skyfire 2.0. Users can look forward to a more powerful, feature-rich browsing experience that leverages the latest advancements in mobile technology. As Skyfire continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving mobile landscape, it remains committed to providing users with the best possible browsing experience.
Via Daily Mobile
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