Adobe unveils AIR 2 and Flash 10.1 betas

Adobe is promising rich internet experiences across any device

Adobe Systems has released beta versions of Adobe AIR 2 and Flash Player 10.1 through its Labs pages.

The Adobe AIR 2 developer tool includes new features, such as improved support for mass storage devices and peer-to-peer networking, while Flash Player 10.1 has been optimised for use on x86-based netbooks, and will be featured in a wide range of smartphones.

"With the beta availability of Adobe AIR 2 and Flash Player 10.1 today we are taking an important step towards realising the Open Screen Project vision to enable rich internet experiences across any device, anywhere," said David Wadhwani, general manager and vice president of the Platform Business Unit at Adobe.

"Content creators will provide multi-screen experiences with uncompromised web browsing and standalone applications across desktops and netbooks, and in the near future across a wide range of mobile devices."

Flash Player 10.1 offers improved copyright protection and streaming, according to Adobe, and has been optimised for use on netbooks and mobile devices. The new version will also help to conserve battery life and improve video playback, the firm said, and offers support for multi-touch and gestures.

Adobe suggested that this would let developers create truly innovative applications that make the most of the new user interface which replaces the mouse with finger controls.

"Now that developers can optimise Flash Player and Adobe AIR content for touch screens with multi-touch, the HP TouchSmart will be an even more compelling platform for developers to build truly distinctive touch-interactive experiences," said Satjiv S. Chahil, senior vice president of worldwide marketing at HP's Personal Systems Group.