Flash video for mobiles is still MIA, but Adobe has got something to keep us sweet in the meantime: it’s prepping a new Flash for TVs and set top boxes! Are widgets about to land on Freesat?
Flash video is the software behind most streaming video you’ll find online, from YouTube to BBC iPlayer, and now it’s coming to TVs too! Adobe is expected to announced a new version of Flash video today that will work with internet connected TVs and set top boxes.
We’ve seen YouTube streaming to TVs already, but new Flash video software means it’ll be even easier for manufacturers to get widgets running on your gogglebox than ever before, as we’ll have a common platform to work with.
Partners already confirmed include Intel, Disney and the New York Times, but what’s got us excited is the potential Flash video could have on Freesat. That ethernet connection in every Freesat set-top box and TV could bring every channel catch up service (BBC iPlayer, 4oD, Demand Five) to your flatscreen, and in HD.
Suddenly, that TV on-demand standard the Beeb is pushing for seems achievable. The first TVs and set top boxes to support Flash video should hit shelves later this year, so keep an eye out.
