Adobe AIR Resurrected: Harman, Samsung, and Apache Unleash a Cross-Platform Revolution for Wearables and Cars!

History of Adobe AIR Runtime

Adobe AIR (Adobe Integrated Runtime) was first introduced by Adobe Systems in 2008 as a cross-platform runtime environment designed to allow developers to build rich internet applications (RIAs) using technologies like Adobe Animate, ActionScript, and optionally Apache Flex. Initially codenamed “Apollo,” AIR aimed to bridge the gap between web and native applications by enabling developers to create standalone desktop and mobile applications that could run on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even BlackBerry Tablet OS. The runtime leveraged a shared codebase with Adobe Flash Player, using ActionScript 3.0 as its primary programming language, and later incorporated HTML5 support via the WebKit engine.

Throughout its early years, AIR gained significant traction. By January 2009, Adobe reported over 100 million installations worldwide, largely driven by the installation of the runtime alongside AIR-based applications. Its versatility allowed developers to create notable applications such as eBay Desktop, Pandora One, TweetDeck, Angry Birds, and Machinarium. By May 2014, Adobe claimed over 100,000 unique AIR applications had been developed, with more than 1 billion installations logged globally. AIR’s ability to support multimedia, file system integration, native extensions, and connected device access made it a powerful tool for developers targeting multiple platforms from a single codebase.

However, Adobe’s focus shifted over time toward other technologies like HTML5 and cloud-based solutions, leading to a pivotal change in AIR’s trajectory. In June 2019, Adobe announced it would transition ongoing support and development of AIR to Harman International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics since its acquisition in 2017. This transition coincided with the release of AIR version 32, after which Adobe limited its support to security fixes for desktop platforms (Windows 7+ and macOS) until the end of 2020. Harman, a long-standing Adobe partner with expertise in AIR and Flash runtime migration, took over to maintain and evolve the platform, resuming support for Android and continuing to update the AIR SDK (Software Development Kit).

Under Harman’s stewardship, AIR has seen continued development, with the latest versions (e.g., AIR 51 as of late 2024) incorporating enhancements like improved Android Gradle support, updated iOS URL handling, and encrypted local store support on Linux. Harman’s leadership, backed by Samsung’s technological prowess and collaboration with the Apache Foundation (notably through Apache Flex integration), has kept AIR relevant for developers needing a robust cross-platform solution.

Future of Adobe AIR Runtime

Looking ahead, Adobe AIR under Harman International, powered by Samsung and supported by Apache Foundation contributions, is poised to maintain its niche in cross-platform development, particularly for desktop and mobile applications. Harman’s focus on automotive and connected technologies aligns with Samsung’s expertise in connectivity (e.g., 5G, UX/UI, and display tech), suggesting a future where AIR could play a role in automotive software and IoT ecosystems. Recent Harman products like Ready CQuence Loop and Ready Link Marketplace (announced in December 2024) highlight a commitment to accelerating software development cycles, which could integrate AIR’s capabilities into virtualized automotive environments.

While AIR may not reclaim its former prominence in the broader app development landscape—where frameworks like Flutter and React Native dominate—its future likely lies in specialized use cases. These include legacy application maintenance, rapid prototyping, and markets requiring lightweight, cross-platform solutions with native-like performance. The Apache Foundation’s involvement ensures ongoing open-source contributions (e.g., via Apache Flex and Royale), potentially broadening AIR’s compatibility and feature set. Harman’s sustainable business model, including paid support, could further stabilize its ecosystem, ensuring longevity for its passionate developer community.

Benefits of Interactive Wearable and Automotive Devices Software Development with AIR

1. Cross-Platform Efficiency: AIR allows developers to write a single codebase deployable across wearables (e.g., Android-based smartwatches) and automotive systems (e.g., infotainment units), reducing development time and costs. This is critical for interactive devices where rapid iteration is key.
2. Rich Multimedia Support: Wearables and automotive interfaces demand engaging visuals and audio. AIR’s strengths in vector graphics, video, and audio integration (inherited from Flash) enable developers to create immersive experiences, such as dynamic dashboards or fitness tracking animations.
3. Native Extensions: AIR’s support for AIR Native Extensions (ANEs) allows integration with device-specific features like accelerometers, GPS, or automotive sensors, enhancing functionality for wearables (e.g., motion tracking) and cars (e.g., telematics).
4. Connected Ecosystem: Harman’s expertise in connected car solutions, paired with Samsung’s 5G and IoT capabilities, positions AIR to support real-time data syncing between wearables and vehicles—e.g., health metrics influencing driving settings.
5. Rapid Prototyping: The AIR simulator and tight integration with tools like Adobe Animate enable quick testing and iteration, ideal for designing intuitive wearable UIs or automotive HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces).

Benefits for Small Software Manufacturers Licensing AIR

1. Cost-Effective Development: Small manufacturers can license AIR’s SDK to build applications for multiple platforms without investing in separate native development teams, leveling the playing field against larger competitors.
2. Simplified Maintenance: A unified codebase reduces the complexity of updates and bug fixes, allowing small teams to maintain software efficiently—crucial for resource-constrained businesses.
3. Access to Mature Tools: AIR’s long history provides access to established IDEs (e.g., Flash Builder, IntelliJ IDEA) and a wealth of tutorials, lowering the learning curve for small developers.
4. Market Reach: Licensing AIR enables deployment to desktops, mobiles, and potentially wearables/automotive systems, expanding market opportunities without additional licensing costs per platform.
5. Support and Stability: Harman’s paid support offers small manufacturers a reliable lifeline for troubleshooting, ensuring their products remain competitive and secure without needing in-house expertise.

In summary, Adobe AIR’s evolution from an Adobe innovation to a Harman-led, Samsung-powered platform reflects its adaptability. Its future lies in niche, high-value applications, particularly in interactive wearables and automotive software, where its benefits shine for both developers and small manufacturers seeking efficient, scalable solutions.

Here are some authentic reference links that can help developers working with Adobe AIR, particularly under its current development by Harman International, with support from Samsung and contributions from the Apache Foundation. These resources provide documentation, SDK downloads, community support, and tools for building applications with AIR:

1. Adobe AIR SDK by Harman International

• Link: https://airsdk.harman.com/
• Description: The official site for downloading the latest Adobe AIR SDK from Harman. It includes release notes, API documentation, and details on supported platforms (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, etc.). Developers can find the latest updates (e.g., AIR 51 as of late 2024) and licensing information here.

1. AIR SDK Developer Resources

• Link: https://airsdk.dev/
• Description: A developer-focused portal offering tutorials, sample projects, and documentation for building cross-platform applications with AIR. It emphasizes ActionScript and cross-platform deployment, making it a practical starting point for beginners and experienced developers alike.

1. Harman AIR Runtime Support on GitHub

• Link: https://github.com/airsdk/Adobe-Runtime-Support
• Description: This GitHub repository hosts discussions, issue tracking, and announcements for AIR SDK updates. Developers can report bugs, ask questions, or follow release announcements (e.g., AIR SDK beta/official releases). It’s a key resource for community-driven support.

1. Apache Flex Official Website

• Link: https://flex.apache.org/
• Description: Since Apache Flex integrates with AIR, this site provides the Flex SDK, documentation, and installation guides. It’s essential for developers combining Flex with AIR, including instructions for merging the Flex SDK with Harman’s AIR SDK.

1. Adobe AIR Community Forum (via Harman Transition Info)

• Link: https://community.adobe.com/t5/air-discussions/bd-p/air-discussions
• Description: While Adobe’s direct support has ended, this forum remains active with discussions about AIR’s transition to Harman. Developers share insights, troubleshoot issues, and discuss best practices for AIR development.

1. Josh Tynjala’s Guide to Installing Apache Flex with Harman AIR

• Link: https://joshblog.net/2024/02/29/how-to-install-apache-flex-with-adobe-air-from-harman/
• Description: A detailed tutorial by a respected developer in the AIR/Flex community. It includes an Ant script and step-by-step instructions for merging Apache Flex with Harman’s AIR SDK, ideal for setting up a modern development environment.

1. AIR SDK Release Notes (Harman)

• Link: https://airsdk.harman.com/release-notes
• Description: Direct access to detailed release notes for each AIR SDK version. These notes cover new features, bug fixes, and platform-specific changes, helping developers stay updated on the runtime’s evolution.

1. Adobe Developer Resources (Historical Context)

• Link: https://developer.adobe.com/
• Description: While Adobe no longer actively develops AIR, this site offers historical documentation and APIs that remain relevant for understanding AIR’s foundations, especially for legacy projects transitioning to Harman’s version.

These links are sourced from official sites, active community hubs, and trusted developer contributions, ensuring authenticity and relevance for AIR development as of March 16, 2025. They cover SDK access, integration with Apache Flex, community support, and practical guides, making them valuable for developers targeting interactive wearables, automotive software, or cross-platform apps.