what is it?

It’s a cross-OS runtime that supports the use of technologies such as Flash, Flex, HTML, JavaScript, Ajax and is currently running across both Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) and Macintosh (Mac) OS X. 

In essence it can easily allow developers to create their own Google Desktop esq applications that after the 1.0 release will also be supported on Linux allowing wide coverage of your desired application over a multitude of operating systems.

who will use it?

Well one sample that is already being pushed out as a showcase is Finetune Desktop.  This allows registered users to use created playlists as well as dynamic playlists dedicated to artists and tags.

I believe this is a prime example of what could be a move away from the traditional web browser as we know it.

I can think of a million and one good examples of uses for ranging from gambling websites integrating flash games into Apollo to lighter functionality I.e. news tickers etc.

will it catch on?

Only time will tell I guess, however, I’m definitely going to give it a go and see what I think, although, first impressions are that it looks very good. 

My main sticking point is that it is another download and how readily users will do this is debatable.  Adobe has to find strong sources from which they can leverage downloads and have themselves stated “we are also exploring a number of other distribution methods, and are confident that we will be able to quickly get significant distribution of the Apollo runtime”, this will be essential part in the potential success of this runtime as low coverage equals a potential flop.

Have a look for yourself on the Apollo Runtime (Adobe Labs) website.