Central, Flex, AIM SDK

Macromedia today released the , a presentation server and application framework that offers web-enabled, rich desktop applications using standards-based, declarative programming methodology and server runtime services.

Based on Macromedia Flash, Macromedia Central offers users access to information distributed over a network or the Internet via a Macromedia Central client on a desktop PC or Macromedia Flash Player 6 on a handheld device. Central will automatically download the most up-to-date information when connected to the Internet, and store it for offline user, according to Macromedia. Central can also distribute applications through a "Try/Buy" capability to help automate the process of trying and purchasing applications.



The Macromedia Central runtime environment includes APIs, a console for notifications, and smaller containers for application data dubbed "pods" as well as data management applications to manage data flow. The new SDK for Central includes user-interface components, a debug panel, Flash authoring templates, sample source code, a library of application graphics/icons, and API documentation. It will also include development tools for AOL's IM platform in a future release.



The new AOL instant messaging SDK for Central will allow developers to integrate AIM/ICQ chat and presence functions with Central-based applications. Macromedia also says that developers will be able to use AOL's IM platform to offer discussion groups, virtual classrooms and multi-party chat.



Flex delivers applications via Flash to user desktops




Flex developers define rich user interfaces using an intuitive XML-based language that the Flex server transforms into intelligent client applications running in the ubiquitous Flash Player. The Flex application framework combines a familiar programming syntax; an extensible class library of building blocks; and runtime services for data connectivity, deployment, and "user experience management." The initial Flex release will run on top of leading J2EE application servers, while a .NET version is planned for future releases. Flex will leverage XML, ECMAScript, SOAP web services, and the Macromedia Flash (SWF) file format.



"An increasing number of enterprises are growing frustrated with the limitations of their current web applications," said Mark Driver, Gartner analyst. "Rich Internet applications overcome the challenges by delivering great user experiences in a ubiquitous manner."



Macromedia says it is also working on two Flex-related projects: the first project, code-named Brady, is based on Dreamweaver MX 2004, and provides visual layout and integrated development and debugging for Flex applications. The second project, code-named Partridge, adds integrated Flex programming support to the open-source Eclipse development environment, enabling enterprise programmers to code, test, and debug Flex applications from within the Eclipse IDE. Brady beta testing is scheduled to begin in December and Partridge beta testing will begin at a later date. Macromedia says it also plans to release an XML schema that adds basic Flex language support to additional third party development environments.



Macromedia Flex is expected to ship in the first half of 2004. The Flex server will be licensed as an enterprise server software product; however, free licenses are planned for evaluation and single user workstation development.

by MacNN Staff