From a web developer standpoint, I have to make a decision weather to use flash for certain elements on client’s websites. Whenever a client states they would like to see “a flash movie” or “flash button” on their site, I always let them know we can achieve the same effect they are desiring, sans-flash. The general response is received well and the client is happy that their website can be viewed on iOS device’s and other mobile devices alike.
Should apple have so much power in the industry that they actually shape the way we approach web design solutions? I think if they are trying to change a problem with a coding platform for the greater good, it is acceptable. With no oversight however, and left unchecked, this can set a dangerous precedent.
With javascript, jquery, HTML5, and CSS3, the truth is we can achieve most of what flash had to offer only a few years back with light weight, stable, web apps. Although Apple may have spear headed the anti-flash revolution, developers have quickly come up with alternate, and more stable approaches to solving many of today’s web design needs.