HTML5, by contrast, is an open-source development that leverages JavaScript to perform almost all of its most complex web tasks. Coupled with the proprietary nature of Adobe’s code, it became difficult for companies, most famously Apple, to justify the use of this program in their operating systems. First is the rapid uptake of Flash, especially for video players, which led to a massive uptick in vulnerabilities. This begs the question: Will the move to HTML5 really mean better security for end users or just another set of personal browser problems?Īccording to ComputerWeekly, there are distinct advantages to choosing the new HTML standard over Flash. As noted by Softpedia, HTML5 ads aren’t always safer than their Flash counterparts. Of course, HTML isn’t without its own issues. So what’s the big benefit for users as companies make the switch from Flash to HTML5? Google said the new technology means reduced power consumption and faster load times, while Twitch users should see fewer frame drops and less CPU load. According to TechCrunch, video-streaming site Twitch is also rolling out a beta HTML5 update to replace Flash for its subscribers. As noted by Ars Technica, the new Firefox 48 release “almost exactly mirrors” the Chrome update. With the release of Chrome 53 this September, the search giant won’t simply ask users if they prefer Flash or HTML5, but will actively block Flash from running unless sites only support the Adobe player. What does a web experience low on Flash really mean for the future of online security? Flash in the PanĪccording to Google’s official Chrome blog, the time has come to “de-emphasize Flash in favor of HTML5.” While the company acknowledges the “pivotal role” of Adobe’s offering in the evolution of web-based video, gaming and animation, there’s a problem: More than 90 percent of this Flash-based content now loads behind the scenes, not only slowing down the end-user browsing experience, but also increasing the risk of security breaches. While a security update was quickly issued to resolve these concerns, the constant break-fix cycle has led some companies - Google and Twitch, for example - to speed their HTML5 update timelines and phase out Adobe’s offering. As noted by ZDNet, the company recently disclosed 52 new vulnerabilities that could lead to remote code execution and includes memory corruption, heap buffer overflows and use-after-free issues. Adobe’s Flash player continues to struggle with security.

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