Adobe confirms Flash coming to ICS before the end of the year

After the announcement that Adobe was ending development of its Flash Player for mobile devices, there was some consternation when it was discovered that current version of Flash will not work on Ice Cream Sandwich devices. Rest easy, as Adobe confirmed today that it will be releasing a version that is compatible with ICS, sometime before year's end.

This means that people who purchase the Galaxy Nexus should be able to browse the “full web” sometime in December, after a quick download from the Android Market. Adobe further clarified their plans, indicating that there would be no Flash for Android 5.0 (Jelly Bean?). Concurrent with the release of Flash for ICS, Adobe is planning a final release of their Flash Linux Porting Kit.

Adobe emphasized their commitment to developing the Adobe AIR platform for mobile devices – the ability to package AIR apps and distribute them on mobile platforms is an important part of Adobe’s “author once, distribute everywhere” strategy.

Adobe also indicated they have a long-term commitment to Flash on the desktop, where they feel Flash continues to provide functionality that HTML 5 does not, including digital rights management for premium video content, and a robust game development platform.

Are you relieved that Flash will be available on the Galaxy Nexus and other ICS handsets? Or do you view Flash as more of a hindrance than a boon? Sound off in the comments below.

source: Pocket-lint via Engadget