Install Flash on Nexus 7 & Jelly Bean Devices - Guide
Flash Player Installation on Nexus 7
While the long-term relevance of Flash is diminishing, a significant number of websites currently rely on it. For users who still require Flash functionality, installation on a Nexus 7 device remains possible, despite the lack of official endorsement from Adobe.
Compatibility Considerations
It's important to acknowledge that Adobe has not formally validated the Flash Player for devices running Jelly Bean (Android 4.1). Consequently, optimal performance cannot be assured, and users may encounter occasional inconsistencies or errors.
Furthermore, Adobe has ceased active development efforts concerning Flash for the Android platform. This means future updates and bug fixes are unlikely to be released.
Installation Process
Despite these caveats, users can still proceed with the installation if they understand the potential limitations. The process involves obtaining the Flash Player archive and manually installing it on the Nexus 7.
Note: Proceeding with this installation is at the user's own risk, and it's recommended to back up your device before making any system-level changes.
The availability of Flash content is decreasing, and modern web standards like HTML5 are increasingly favored. However, for those instances where Flash is still necessary, this workaround provides a temporary solution.
Obtaining the Flash APK File
Direct installation of Flash Player isn't possible through the Google Play Store; therefore, the APK file must be obtained independently. Numerous online sources, such as the XDA Developers forum, provide this APK for download. However, installing Android package files from unverified websites is generally discouraged due to potential security risks.
If you possess an Android phone or tablet that already has Flash Player installed, you can extract the APK file directly from the device. Several methods facilitate this process, including utilizing AirDroid, a tool previously covered on this platform. Begin by installing AirDroid on your smartphone, then launch the application and access it through a web browser on your computer.
Within the AirDroid interface, select the "Apps" icon. Locate Flash Player within the application list—it may be categorized under "System"—and click the provided download link. This action will extract and download the Flash APK file to your computer.
Installing the Flash APK
The next step involves transferring the APK file to your Nexus 7, or another device running Jelly Bean. Several methods can be employed for this transfer. These include utilizing a USB connection, leveraging cloud storage platforms like Google Drive, or employing AirDroid for Wi-Fi-based file transfer.
Once the APK file resides on your Nexus 7, enabling installations from "Unknown sources" is necessary. This setting permits the installation of applications originating outside of the Google Play Store. Access the Settings screen to proceed. (This can be done by pulling down the notification shade and selecting the Settings icon, or by locating the Settings icon within the app drawer.)
Within the Settings screen, select the "Security" category and activate the "Unknown sources" checkbox.
Locating and initiating the installation of the APK file is the subsequent action. If the file was copied to the device’s file system, a file manager, such as ES File Explorer, will be required to find and install it. Alternatively, if Google Drive was used, simply open the Google Drive application and tap the APK file. (This approach applies similarly to other cloud storage services.)
Confirm the installation when the prompt appears.
Following the installation of Flash, it is advisable to revisit the Settings screen and disable the "Unknown sources" option. This action helps to safeguard your device against potential malware. The option can be re-enabled should you wish to install applications from sources outside of the Google Play Store.
Enabling Flash Support on Android Browsers
The Google Chrome browser, as it is implemented for Android devices, lacks native support for Flash content. Therefore, alternative browsing solutions are necessary to access websites utilizing this technology.
Currently, Firefox Beta provides Flash compatibility on devices like the Nexus 7. Installation is straightforward and can be completed directly through the Google Play Store.
Upon installation, launching Firefox will allow users to view Flash-based content embedded within web pages. A restart of the Firefox application may be required following the Flash installation process, even if it was already running.
Alternative Installation Methods
Reports indicate that some users have successfully enabled Flash support by sideloading an APK file of the older, default Android browser, historically labeled as “Browser”.
However, this method necessitates root access on the device and involves a more complex installation procedure. It is a less conventional approach compared to utilizing Firefox Beta.
Important Note: Sideloading applications carries inherent security risks and should be undertaken with caution.
Utilizing Flash Player Effectively
For users who primarily rely on the Firefox browser for Flash content, it's advisable to access the browser’s configuration panel. Within the settings, ensure that the Plugins option is set to Enabled; Firefox defaults to a "Tap to Play" configuration for plugins.
This adjustment guarantees that Flash content will function without requiring manual activation on each webpage.
Streamlining Flash Access with Chrome and Flashify
Even if Chrome is your preferred browser, accessing Flash content can be simplified. The Flashify application allows for seamless redirection of Flash-required pages to Firefox.
When encountering a webpage necessitating Flash, navigate to Chrome’s menu. Select the Share option, then choose Flashify to transmit the page to Firefox.
Firefox will then launch and render the Flash content directly, eliminating the need for manual URL copying and pasting.
This method provides a convenient workflow for users who wish to leverage Chrome for general browsing while maintaining access to Flash functionality through Firefox.