Adobe's Apollo tries to bridge the Internet and desktop

Adobe Systems has released a beta version of its upcoming Apollo software that tries to combine web interactivity with the responsiveness of desktop applications. The software is similar to its Flash technology which is used by millions of websites to enhance interfaces and stream video. Apollo-fueled applications will run on the desktop and still maintain a connection to the Internet.

Apollo applications will require a runtime component to be installed, much like Microsoft’s .NET framework. The programs will run on the desktop and will pull information from the Internet as needed. Adobe says programs will still function, even when the Internet connection is severed.

It’s unclear how Apollo will compete with online applications that are already out on the market. Also are web developers willing to learn yet another language in addition to the current crop of Javascript, HTML, Ajax and XML. Google’s Apps, which feature an online word processor, spreadsheet and calendar are perhaps the most popular example of applications written in AJAX.

The commercial version of Apollo should be available later this year. Adobe has not released specific pricing information.