Adobe Launches Flash-to-HTML5 Conversion Tool

OREM, Utah — Adobe Systems has released a free experimental Flash-to-HTML 5 conversion tool that allows users to convert Flash Professional output (FLA files) to HTML5 via a simple drag and drop.

Called “Wallaby," the software is a cross-platform Adobe AIR application from Adobe Labs that can be edited using any text editor or authoring tool like Dreamweaver.

Wallaby’s main thrust is for developing simple banner ads and other animation.

The product reportedly made its first appearance last fall at Adobe's Max 2010 developer conference and now at the FITC Flash show in Amsterdam.

"We are making this available free on Adobe Labs as experimental technology; it's something we hope to continue to iterate and get feedback on from customers," said Tom Barclay, senior product manager for Flash Professional.

He added, "I'm interested in how useful this output is, what people intend to use it for, and whether this is something we should be supporting longer term in Flash Professional as another output option or publish setting."

The Apple community is particularly interested in the release because it would make some content previously unavailable on the iOS platform viewable on the iPad and iPhone. Apple has resisted supporting Flash on its iOS devices claiming that Adobe’s technology is vulnerable to hacking, uses too much battery life and crashes too often.

But Adobe has countered Apple’s criticisms and said the ban is overly restrictive and hurts users and software developers.

Despite the positive buzz, Wallaby has limitations.

Barclay pointed out that not all elements from the Flash files will translate into HTML5. Although users get the benefit of improved design and motion graphic animations, blend modes and filters along with audio, video and ActionScript are not supported in the translation.

Adobe explained that the beta version of Wallaby is simply a starting point that includes a combination of HTML, SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) and CSS.

Wallaby does supports Flash Professional features that include vector art and images, classic text, keyframes, MovieClips and graphics, classic, motion, shape tweens, rollover buttons and instance names.

The software doesn’t support Flash Professional filters (except simple alpha), blend modes, dynamic masks, some TLF (Text Layout Framework) text, 3D transforms and 3D tween, audio and video and ActionScript.

For more sophisticated development Barclay advised that content be brought into Dreamweaver and add interactivity using JavaScript and JQuery.

Wallaby has reportedly been tested mostly in WebKit-based browsers such as Safari and Chrome and some conversions in Firefox, Android and Opera browsers, but the latter versions are not yet available.

Although not confirmed, speculation is that Wallaby will be added to a future versions of Flash Professional.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

2025 XBIZ Amsterdam Website Launches With Call for Speakers

XBIZ is pleased to announce that the website for its annual European conference, XBIZ Amsterdam, is now live.

NC Governor Vetoes Bill Targeting Adult Industry, Override Possible

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein today vetoed a bill imposing new regulations that adult industry observers have warned could push adult websites and platforms to ban most adult creators and content.

25,000 Sign Petition to Legalize Pornography in Ukraine

An OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine has amassed the 25,000 signatures required for official consideration by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

WannaCollab Joins Pineapple Support as Supporter-Level Sponsor

WannaCollab has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

FSC Unpacks SCOTUS Age Verification Ruling in Webinar

The Free Speech Coalition conducted a public webinar Tuesday to help adult industry stakeholders understand the Supreme Court’s recent decision in FSC v. Paxton, and its potential implications.

UK Lawmaker Calls for Appointment of 'Porn Minister'

Baroness Gabrielle Bertin, the Conservative member of Parliament who recently convened a new anti-pornography task force, is calling for the appointment of a “minister for porn,” according to British news outlet The Guardian.

FSC Toasts Jeffrey Douglas for 30 Years of Service

n the very same evening when the adult industry was hit hard by the Supreme Court ruling supporting Texas’ controversial age verification law, HB 1181, members of the Free Speech Coalition board, staff and supporters gathered to celebrate Jeffrey Douglas’ 30 years as board chair — a fitting reflection of his reputation as an eternal optimist.

TTS Opens UK Testing Location

Talent Testing Service (TTS) has opened a new U.K. location in Ware, Hertfordshire.

FSC: Age-Verification Laws Go Into Effect in South Dakota, Georgia, Wyoming on July 1

The Free Speech Coalition (FSC) has published a statement regarding new age verification laws set to go into effect tomorrow in South Dakota, Georgia, and Wyoming.

FSC Responds to Supreme Court Decision on Texas AV Law

The Free Speech Coalition (FSC) has released a statement responding to last week's Supreme Court decision on FSC v. Paxton, the Texas age verification law.

Show More