At least one major web browser is moving toward greater use of lightweight alternatives to classic plugins. For those looking to increase mainframe access, this could also parallel browser based terminal emulator use, another means of accessing information through smoothly integrated HTML rather than a difficult add-on.
In an Aug. 9 post on the official Chrome Blog, Flash Curator Anthony LaForge described the new way the browser will handle Flash-based content in the future. While the upcoming Chrome 53 will shift away from Flash in September, the full transition won't take place until three months later with the advent of Chrome 55.
According to LaForge, this move is necessary to match the speed and efficiency publishers already prefer, making it relevant.
"The upcoming Chrome 53 will shift away from Flash in September."
"In December, Chrome 55 will make HTML5 the default experience, except for sites which only support Flash," he said. "For those, you'll be prompted to enable Flash when you first visit the site. Aside from that, the only change you'll notice is a safer and more power-efficient browsing experience."
Other browsers have also dropped Flash in recent years. Earlier this summer, Mozilla will also announced that Firefox would depend less on Adobe Flash. Mozilla's Quality Engineer Benjamin Smedberg said that "the web as a whole" is making Flash content less prominent in browser use. Firefox's plan has been years in the making and follows Facebook and YouTube's previous changeovers to HTML5 in 2015.
A web based terminal emulator gives enterprises a centralized way to manage host sessions. Businesses won't have to worry about installation and will also have a way to still interact with major browsers no matter which programs businesses prefer for everyday use.