Safari 4.0.5 to offer better HTML5, plug-in support
With Safari users suffering badly from a range of Flash-related problems, users are looking for relief. Thereupon, from improved plugin load times to a fix for a JavaScript issue in the current release, as well as improved HTML5 video playback, the next release of Safari promises a lot.
Apple’s update Mac developer program no longer distributes pre-release software as widely as before. However, AppleInsider has still managed to unearth the inside dope on the next Safari maintenance update.
People familiar with the seedings say one of the primary focuses of Safari 4.0.5 is to fix a regression in the browser’s JavaScript engine that manifested with the release of Safari 4.0.4. The maintenance release will also reportedly see certain code blocks, like Move Code, transitioned from the Safari codebase to that of Webkit in order to improve cross platform support.
Further, we can look forward to improved HTML5 video playback, faster loading Top Site, better YouTube performance and reduced memory usage. These features and fixes alone represent a fairly tall order to fill.
Nevertheless, Apple’s also said to be working on an improved Plug-in manager, which could result in fewer Flash-related crashes — a fix, assuming it performs as advertised, many users will welcome.
A fix too far?
Still, it bears repeating that Charlie Miller of pwn2own fame states unequivocally that the easiest way to improve browser security is to not use Flash at all.
Having issues with Safari (or Flash)? Sound off in the comments below…
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