Is Flash content no longer supported after 2020 and if so can I still use it?
If you’ve opened Chrome recently, you may have spotted a notification at the top of your browser stating that Flash Player Will No longer be supported after 2020.
Microsoft browsers, Internet Explore and Microsoft Edge have already begun phasing it out. Flash elements are disabled by default. However, the user can manually turn this on prior to the complete removal on 31st December 2020. After which, Flash will no longer be supported in any capacity.
Reading this, your first thought might be – who on earth is still using Flash these days?!?
As professional web and graphic designers based in Eastbourne, we’re always keen to keep up to date. We’ve noticed for a good few years now that the usage of Flash on websites has been very much frowned upon. This is largely due to the lack of usability on apple devices such as iPhones and iPads. The fact that having a Flash website or Flash elements on your site renders it unusable on one of the most popular operating systems was a big nail in the coffin for Flash developers.
Is utilising Flash on my website a bad thing?
We at Digital Fuse cannot stress enough that having Flash content on your website is NOT a good Idea. Any content elements using Flash, whether a menu, animated feature, gallery – or indeed an entire website, CANNOT be read by search engines. This means that your content is not index-able by Google at all. Unless of course you utilise a separate XML feed – which has limited benefits. This means you’ll likely be missing out on users, visitors and customers who cannot find you because your content or product isn’t searchable!
What do I need to do if I have Flash content?
If you’re using Flash content on your website, and need help in either removing or switching it for something accessible, think ‘web design Eastbourne’ and give us a call/email!
We’ll review any Flash elements you have and will provide alternative solutions. Aiming to keep your content dynamic, but fully accessible in the search engines. There are numerous alternatives to using Flash, such as interactive HTML5 elements, or JavaScript solutions. This will not only improve your website’s accessibility, allowing it to be read by Apple devices; but will give your information additional SEO benefits, by utilising keywords and meta-data.
How do I know if I have Flash on my website?
If you’re not sure if you have Flash on your website then get in touch with us. We will review your website and outline any areas of your site that are Flash based. We’ll also provide targeted and swift solutions on how to fix them.
We hope this above article has given you a good insight into the end of Flash. Also what the impending support deadline means for you and your business. If you would like to have a chat about your website, whether it’s Flash driven or not – we’re all ears! Come down to Eastbourne, the Sunshine Coast and see how we can help you and your business or simply give us a call!
