Many cell phones today use a simpler version known as Flash Lite. But while that works well for the user interface on the phone, the differences among various mobile devices, wireless carriers and mobile operating systems mean that users have widely inconsistent experiences when they try to access video and other content on the Internet.
Adobe signed up Nokia, Motorola, Verizon, Cisco and other major companies for what it calls the Open Screen Project, in which Adobe agreed to waive licensing fees and other restrictions on some of its software. It was a smart move, according to Michael Gartenberg, an industry analyst for Jupitermedia and MobileDevicesToday.com.
"It makes great sense for Adobe to be moving Flash into the mobile space in a bigger way," Gartenberg said. While consumers want a "richer experience" on their phones, he added, "right now, the mobile market is fragmented."
But Gartenberg warned that Microsoft and other software makers are also vying for a strong mobile presence. Apple has not included Flash in its iPhone, although Narayen said Adobe is developing a version for Apple products. Gartenberg predicted other competitors will announce new mobile software at this week's trade show.
While consumers don't pay for Flash, Adobe profits when developers use its software. In addition to licensing fees, the company sells authoring tools that developers can use to create and test their applications, and server software that lets broadcasters stream video and other content to Internet users.
Again, Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) are in high demand!
