Apr
20
Adobe Flash for Your TV
Today, Adobe announced it is extending its Flash platform to digital devices in your living room like internet-ready televisions, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and more. This means services like Hulu and Netflix will soon be available for streaming straight to your TV.
Simulated Flash television content, courtesy Adobe
Flash support for televisions will mean interactive viewing experiences and the ability to switch between web content and standard television programming. So, if there is nothing on TV at the moment, just switch over to Hulu or Netflix and stream whatever you feel like. This could be a major change in the way home entertainment is presented to the consumer.
Flash for your TV is just the latest development in what will be the proliferation of Flash technology into your everyday life. Flash is already installed on 98% of all internet enabled computers, and as I reported last month, Flash will soon be invading your mobile phone. This is great for content providers and consumers alike. It give consumers more freedom and customization in their television experience, and allows content providers to interact and retain their viewers with greater ease. I just hope this doesn’t devolve into pop up ads on your television, but I’m sure that will be one eventual side-effect.
Adobe also announced partnerships with content providers like Disney, Netflix, Comcast, and Atlantic Records, as well as partnerships with chipmakerse like Intel and Sigma Designs. Partnerships with TV manufacturers are expected soon.
New devices with support for Flash will be available starting in the second half of 2009, so you will have to be patient for a little while longer before Hulu is integrated into your new HD flatscreen.
Tweet
