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Flash was a beautiful world. The games were alluring, the websites inviting and interactive. It was so successful that everyone wanted to be a part of it at one point during the history of the internet.
But, in 2020, Flash reached its End of Life. So, what happened? The story behind this crucial moment in technological history is complex and fascinating. And, yes, Steve Jobs had a lot to do with it.
So, hop on and enjoy the ride. In this episode of Forensics, we’ll tell you all about Flash.
Flash’s history in a flash
Back in the ’90s, multimedia came in diskettes and CDs. Games, interactive encyclopedias, and videos were clunky and slow.
The software was rigid, and it lacked compatibility. So, as the internet grew in popularity, it was clear the world needed another solution.
The internet called for alluring visuals. But they had to be quick to deal with slow connections. The platform needed to be light, fast, and easy to use. And that’s where Jonathan Gay and Charlie Jackson come in.
Both met at a MacIntosh Users Group and clicked immediately. Gay was a game developer, and Jackson wanted to get into the world of MacIntosh software. So, it was a perfect match.
With the help of Michelle Welsh, they formed FutureWave Software in 1993 to focus on animation. Though it seemed like a gamble, Jonathan Gay was convinced that pen drawing was the future.
The team was obsessed with flexibility and ease of use for digital artists. And, while their first try didn’t sell well, it taught them valuable lessons.
In 1996, their software, FutureSplash, included animation and the use of a pen to draw. And it made perfect sense.
With a growing internet, they quickly secured some big clients, like the Simpsons website, Disney.com, and MSN.com. Yes, MSN was big back then.
