Adobe extends Flash to Apple devices with free HTML5 conversion tool

Adobe has released for free download an experimental Flash-to-HTML5 converter to the development community through beta technology site, Adobe Labs.

The tool, dubbed Wallaby, is a cross-platform Adobe AIR application that enables users to convert Flash files to HTML5 using a drag-and-drop interface.

The tool is aimed at enabling developers to re-use and extend the reach of their content to devices that do not support Flash.

Once the files are converted to HTML, they can be edited either manually, or using an HTML tool such as Adobe Dreamweaver.

The output can be viewed on supported browsers or devices running Apple's iOS operating system, such as the iPad or iPhone.

Apple does not support Flash because it is unreliable, not secure, drains mobile battery life and is not designed for touchscreens, according to an open letter by Apple chief executive Steve Jobs published in April 2010.

Wallaby is Adobe's attempt to push back at Apple's position, and also to help developers make the transition to HTML5.

A recently study by MeFeedia revealed that the proportion of online videos compatible with HTML5 has increased from 10% to 63% in the past year, indicating that the H.264 format may be set to challenge Flash as the dominant format for online video producers.