Many online video sites such as YouTube have been experimenting with HTML5. A debate doing the rounds of the online world these days is whether HTML 5 will replace Flash in the near future for online video.

Though HTML 5 is yet to get the final approval for bursting on the scene and needs compatible browsers to work well, it is unlikely to crush Flash, mainly because of these reasons:

* Multiple features: You stand to enjoy great levels of robustness, power and flexibility with the use of Flash. With additional features like animated text support, 3D effects, dynamic streaming and hardware acceleration, Flash appears to reign supreme even if HTML makes an appearance in the market.

* A proven winner: Be it working well with various video file formats or getting browsers support, Flash has it all going for itself. On the other hand, HTML 5 is yet not complete for use, and would need a lot of work and support to be done before it can rival the popularity of Flash.

* Speedy updates: Flash goes on upgrading itself with added features and functionality while nobody is sure when HTML 5 is expected to be ready. Even when it gets ready, it will need quite sometime to enjoy the widespread use that Flash presently enjoys.

* High level of comfort: Since Flash has been around for quite sometime now, it is getting used and installed everywhere. Everyone knows about it and rarely have any problem installing it. With HTML 5, people may either need to upgrade their browsers or change to specific ones to view videos on particular web pages. This may mean a lot of work as compared to using the user-friendly Flash.

* Nothing is wrong with Flash: As Flash is working well despite a hitch here or there sometimes, there is no need to learn a new application like HTML 5 or getting used to its features. Since almost everyone is hard pressed for time and money these days, it is unlikely that people will be willing to invest time, money and effort for a new learning process.

* Ideal for big corporates: For corporate giants, making the transition from Flash to HTML 5 will include a huge investment on account of money, resources, and manpower. Given the present economic scenario, it is unlikely that many would be willing to consider the move, leave alone even making it as the cost involved in unknown.

Flash is apparently all set to rule the market given its advantages over HTML 5. There are also many user friendly applications are available for consumers who want to use flash for their websites to add features such as online video, interactive maps, animated flash intros, etc.