When a desktop app or game asks for Adobe AIR, it needs this runtime to open its packaged content. Adobe AIR runs apps built with web technologies on Windows, including apps that use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript or ActionScript and Flash.
What does the AIR runtime run?
AIR gives packaged applications a runtime environment outside a web browser. Developers can build an app around web code or ActionScript and Flash content, then package it for AIR instead of writing a separate native application for each platform.
For someone installing the Windows runtime, the usual task is to open an app that was made for AIR. The runtime provides the pieces that app expects, while the app itself supplies its screens and purpose. This includes desktop tools, business software, and games.
Desktop features available to AIR apps
AIR apps can interact with parts of the desktop through runtime APIs. Depending on the app, these include:
- Reading and writing local files
- Creating and managing application windows
- Showing desktop notifications
- Storing information in a local database
- Displaying web content inside an app
Packaged apps and runtime use
An app distributed as an .air package relies on the runtime to launch on Windows. Adobe AIR is the component that runs that app; creating or packaging apps is a separate development workflow involving the AIR SDK.
HARMAN maintains the AIR runtime and SDK. Existing applications may continue to depend on AIR when their developers have not moved them to another platform. Compatibility depends on the individual app and the AIR features it uses.
Pros
- Runs desktop apps packaged in the .air format
- Supports interfaces built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Provides app access to files, windows, notifications, and local databases
Cons
- Some older apps depend on Flash or ActionScript content
What is Adobe AIR used for?
It runs desktop applications and games packaged for AIR, including apps built with web technologies or ActionScript and Flash.
Do I need Adobe AIR to create an app?
The runtime runs packaged AIR apps. Building and packaging them is a separate development task using the AIR SDK.
What can an AIR app access on a computer?
Depending on the app, AIR APIs can provide access to local files, windows, notifications, local databases, and embedded web content.