More Flash open-source

Two core Flash technologies have entered the open-source realm, according to an Adobe announcement. The first of these is Strobe, now known as the Open Source Media Framework. Developers can use the technology to build media players around Flash, adding extra features as wanted or needed. The second is the Text Layout Framework, which allows for special typography functions in web applications.

Adobe says it is unlikely that Flash Player itself will become open-source. The software contains code not owned by the company, namely audio and video codecs. More promise remains for apps such as Flex Builder IDE, which is based on another open-source project, Eclipse IDE. Adobe is meanwhile working with hosting service Akamai, which should support the Open Source Media Framework as a part of its Open Video Player initiative. Companies should thus be able to build new services.

by MacNN Staff