The introduction of the feature-rich fifth version of HTML generated a lot of buzz when unveiled to the world. All discussions eventually lead to one important question, “Will HTML5 rise up one day to completely replace Adobe’s dominant Flash technology?”
It was too early to predict that then, but now that HTML5 has been around for some time, we are better placed to answer that question. Though again, it’s not a straight yes or no. Before we try to project the future of these two competing technologies on the internet, let’s consider some facts.
Getting Real
The HTML5 vs. Flash debate needs to be evaluated keeping in mind these key observations:
Projecting the Future
Early attempts to make Flash work on mobile devices were not encouraging at all; and rather than waiting for Adobe to improve its platform, the community started embracing HTML5. Apple famously chose not to make its mobile OS compatible with Flash and since that controversy; Flash on modern mobile devices has been the exception rather than the norm.
In the desktop world on the other hand, Flash is deeply entrenched but HTML5 has started making inroads. For example, most modern websites utilize the native ability of HTML to render image galleries and videos, with some companies making a complete transition to HTML5 on both the mobile and desktop versions of their online portals.
Gaming still remains a stronghold of Flash and there is still hasn’t been developed a better alternative to give it any serious challenge. Flash is also heavily used by graphic designers and animators, who can create complex animations for the Web easily with it.
But today, it seems that the day is not far when Flash will be pushed into a very small, niche market and HTML5 will be delivering the same interactivity with companion technologies like CSS 3 and JavaScript. That is though if Adobe is not able to completely re-work Flash from the ground up to make it light, nimble and resource friendly. The battle between the two platforms might have receded into the background for now, but it is in no way over yet.
Whatever happens, in either case, the competition will push forward innovation and end users like us will benefit and come out on top!