Flash Video is a popular container file format that delivers digital video content over the Internet using Adobe Flash Player version 6 and later. It is widely used by television shows, movies, news providers, and video streaming websites such as Hulu, VEVO, Yahoo! Video, metacafe, Reuters.com, and many others.
The Two Different Flash Video File Formats
There are two different file formats for Flash Video: FLV and F4V. The audio and video in FLV files are encoded in the same way as in SWF files, while the F4V file format is based on the ISO base media file format, starting with Flash Player 9 Update 3. Both formats are supported by Adobe Flash Player and developed by Adobe Systems.
Evolution of Flash Video
Flash Video was originally developed by Macromedia and was the de facto standard for web-based video streaming (via RTMP) in the early 2000s. Until version 9 Update 2 of Flash Player, Flash Video referred to a proprietary file format with an FLV extension. The latest version of Flash Player now supports H.264 video and HE-AAC audio, making it one of the most versatile video formats available today.
Benefits of Using Flash Video for Online Video Streaming
Flash Video offers several benefits for online video streaming. It is widely supported, making it compatible with most browsers and devices. It is also easy to use and can be embedded in SWF files, making it ideal for websites and interactive projects. Additionally, it has a relatively small file size, meaning that it can be streamed quickly and efficiently even on slower internet connections.
Conclusion
Flash Video is a reliable and versatile file format that makes it possible to deliver high-quality video content over the Internet. With its wide compatibility, small file size, and ability to be embedded in SWF files, it remains a popular choice for video streaming today.
FAQs
What is the difference between FLV and F4V?
FLV and F4V are two different file formats for Flash Video. While the audio and video in FLV files are encoded in the same way as in SWF files, the F4V file format is based on the ISO base media file format, starting with Flash Player 9 Update 3.
What are the benefits of using Flash Video for online video streaming?
Flash Video offers several benefits for online video streaming, including its wide compatibility, ease of use, ability to be embedded in SWF files, and relatively small file size, meaning that it can be streamed quickly and efficiently even on slower internet connections.
Is Flash Video still relevant today?
While there are other video formats available today, Flash Video remains a popular choice for online video streaming thanks to its wide compatibility, ease of use, and relatively small file size.
