AIR (Adobe Integrated Runtime) is Adobe’s cross-operating system runtime environment that allows developers to leverage the current technologies like Flash, AJAX, Flex, HTML and JavaScript, and enable the deployment of Rich Internet Applications (RIAs) to the desktop. Prior to it’s release AIR was codenamed Apollo.
Applications developed using AIR provide a delightful way of presenting live data and one does not need to be connected to the internet all the time. From the visual standpoint, AIR technology offers the power to change the interface design thus bringing a coherence between function and looks. This also greatly enhances the UX of the product and supplements any deficiencies in the original structure. It seems unlikely that the increasing reach of AIR would make the internet browser applications redundant since a majority of the internet population still relies on the software for surfing pages. However as a reminder, the developers and designers must begin earnestly to move towards web standards and help to bring about a consistency in the way content and design is demonstrated online. Till such time get addicted to AIR like me.
Some interesting AIR applications that I came across on the internet:
• Twhirl – posting on Twitter was never so exciting. It’s got an amazing dashboard plus you can select from a list of themes.
• Google Analytics AIR – your website statistics report presented in a much friendlier form.
• ReadAIR – Subscribed RSS feeds from your Google Reader account.
• Shrink-O-Matic – Easy-to-use batch resizing of GIFs, JPEGs and PNGs.
• WebSnapShot – Instant screen captures in a variety of forms.
AIR Information:
• Adobe AIR: Developer FAQ
• Fresh AIR apps – Resource, tutorials and list of Adobe AIR apps.
• Adobe AIR – Browser vs. Desktop comparison chart
• Adobe Topic Center page on Rich Internet Application
• 6 Adobe AIR Apps to check out
