Adobe has finally released an update AIR which was long anticipated by developers worldwide. This development platform already generated interest for a few weeks now in anticipation of the release of the update. The latest version was released during the Adobe MAX convention and the key additions to the latest version is quite impressive. It could even be said that they are really aiming for more adoption based on the updates.

Key Updates

One of the significant update of AIR 1.5 is the updated version of WebKit in AIR. The updated version of WebKit has been vastly improved to increase its ability to read JavaScript functions. This was made possible with their new function called SquirrelFish (not to be confused with email platform).

This function essentially enable developers to improve reading of JavaScript especially when they are used with HTML. If you take a look at today’s trend in online applications, JavaScript usually exist with HTML.

With this release, developers from Ajax or those who are on AIR will find this update really appealing. After all, WebKit itself does bring a lot of innovations for AIR and an update of it will only mean additional and significant features.

Better debugging has also been added in the latest update of AIR 1.5. Developers are always looking to increase the development process and one of the things that are slowing them down is debugging.

The latest version plans to cut that by adding a highly interactive debugging process. Instead of complicating things, the debugger will basically become an RIA wherein developers could quickly interact with the application that points out bugs in their application.

Improved security is also implemented in the latest version of AIR. This version will help developers increase the security in their AIR based websites and APIs. This is done through local database encryption.

This integration was added through the increasing demands by most developers. Adobe heard their plea and added this key feature for security.

Additional Features

Flash 10 Integration

This “controversial” update of Flash will not be part of AIR 1.5. The removal of SWF function for uploads has disappointed a lot of developers and have forced them to change key parts of their online applications.

As Flash 10 will now be part of AIR 1.5, the same function (other consider this as disadvantage) will be available. If you are not familiar with this key update on Flash 10, better review the update.

The SDK for the latest version of AIR is also available for download from their official website. You will also notice that FLEX (Flash based competition for Ajax) was also updated and also available for download.

Adobe AIR 1.5 promises to be a powerful RIA development platform. With the integration of additional functions from WebKit and security, AIR is on the right track if they are aiming to be the leader in development platform.