HTC launches first Android phone to support Flash

Handset maker HTC announced its new Hero is the first Android-powered smartphone to ship with support for Adobe Systems' Flash technology, promising a more complete web browsing experience as well as access to a wealth of Flash-based content. According to HTC, Hero users can browse and discover web content and applications not supported by rival devices, and check out YouTube videos in full-screen viewing mode by double tapping the screen--the device also boasts support for Sorenson and On2 VP6 codecs, enabling higher quality video and playback of existing web content. HTC also announced its participation in the Adobe-led Open Screen Project, a broad industry initiative dedicated to implementing Flash as a consistent runtime across device screens in an effort to drive rich Internet experiences across mobile handsets, televisions, personal computers and consumer electronics.

During a conference call last week, Adobe confirmed it is poised to release its Flash Player 10 multimedia and application software in October. "We are bringing Flash Player 10 to smartphone class devices to enable the latest web browsing experience," Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen said. "Multiple partners have already received early versions of this release and we expect to release a beta version for developers at our MAX Conference in October. Google's Android, Nokia's Symbian OS, Windows Mobile, and the new Palm webOS will be among the first devices to support web browsing with the newest Flash player."

For on the HTC Hero's Flash support:
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