Do Mac desktops and laptops play Flash media?

QUESTION: Do Mac desktops and laptops play Flash media? – J.C., Lafayette, Indiana

ANSWER: I have a strong suspicion why you are asking this question. My guess is that you have an iPhone and are frustrated at its inability to play Flash content. And at the same time, you are wondering why no one ever complains about Flash content on traditional Apple computers such as the iMac or the MacBook.

Well, the short answer is this. Flash content is 100% compatible with the iMac and the MacBook, with the appropriate software installed. So why does Apple allow Flash content on some of their products and not others?

My temptation is to answer “because Apple doesn’t like Adobe (the current owner/distributor of Flash).” But then I did a little digging and realized it’s much more than that. In fact, there are six reasons.

But rather than re-hash the six reasons, I thought it easier to just link straight to the source on Apple’s web site, an article written by Steve Jobs in April, 2010 titled Thoughts on Flash.

If you’re anything like me, you will have a much better appreciation of Apple’s decision after reading this article.

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