Adobe Labs Launches Public Alpha of Apollo

Adobe announced that the first public alpha version of Apollo is now available for developers on Adobe Labs.

So what is Appolo?
Apollo is the code name for a cross-operating system application runtime that allows web developers to leverage their existing skills in HTML, JavaScript and Ajax, as well as Adobe Flash and Adobe Flex software to build and deploy rich Internet applications on the desktop.

The alpha version of the Apollo application runtime and the Apollo Software Developer’s Kit (SDK) can be downloaded for free from www.adobe.com/go/apollo.
 
Apollo is an important element of Adobe’s strategy to provide technologies and product workflows for developers and designers to create and deliver new kinds of high-impact, rich applications, content and experiences to engage people virtually anywhere at anytime.

Apollo provides people with direct access to Internet applications (including those built with HTML, JavaScript, Flash and PDF) without the need to open a browser, offering a familiar desktop application experience, and easier and more reliable interaction with content.

With Apollo, people can launch applications directly from their desktops and interact with them offline. When a network connection is available, newly created or changed content can seamlessly synchronize. In upcoming versions, Apollo’s integration with the desktop will allow people to drag and drop items, such as image files and other media assets, directly into Apollo applications.

The first version of Apollo for developers includes a free SDK that provides a set of command line tools for developing and working with Apollo applications. Web developers can use the Integrated Development Environment of their choice, including Adobe tools such as Eclipse-based Flex Builder, Flash, and Dreamweaver software to build Apollo applications in significantly less time than it takes to build and deploy traditional desktop applications.

Apollo complements Ajax and other RIA technologies. Additionally, upcoming versions of Apollo will integrate PDF, run on Linux, and include deeper Ajax support, and in the future Apollo will leverage mobile technologies.