Flash Earth: mapping Google/MSN in Flash
di Paul Neave
Pubblicato il 16 Settembre 2005
Versione italiana dell’articolo
Flash Earth was developed merely as an experiment to see how well Flash could replicate the interface given by new online mapping tools such as Google Maps and MSN Virtual Earth.
Google Earth uses the same satellite imagery in a downloadable, client application which gives much greater control over the computer’s processing power and so is able to create a slick interface for the Earth in glorious 3D. Google Maps is limited to the web browser, and so to give it the greatest ‘reach’ it uses common browser technology: namely JavaScript, XML and HTML (or if you prefer, dynamic HTML, DHTML or the newer acronym AJAX).
DHTML is great for text-based functionality, but when it comes to image manipulation, Flash gives DHTML a good run for its money. Flash can create a much smoother interface because it was designed as an animation tool. DHTML is really an add-on that is technically frozen in the late 1990s from when it was first conceived. Flash keeps up with technological advances because the player is always being upgraded every 18 months.
Future versions of the Flash Earth application will include options that are virtually impossible to create in DHTML:
- such as being able to freely draw directly onto the map,
- alter image properties,
- overlaying blurred weather imagery,
- new engaging graphic modes and much more.
With the release of Flash 8, the battle between ‘rich’ and ‘reach’ applications will unleash a flurry of activity comparing DHTML/AJAX against Flash. The only negative for Flash is that it is a propriety plug-in owned by one company whereas HTML and JavaScript are considered ‘open’ and don’t require developers to buy software to create their products. But open source is one area Flash is moving into with the developments of www.OSFlash.org and Macromedia’s upcoming RIA IDE codenamed Zorn. Anyone who knocks the future of Flash obviously doesn’t see the bigger picture.