Adobe released earlier this week the 1.0 version of Adobe Integrated Runtime (AIR), a technology for running rich internet application (RIAs) on the desktop using technologies such as AJAX, Flex, and Flash. AIR creates new opportunities for ActionScript and web developers by letting them use their existing skills to create cross platform applications with desktop-responsiveness and web based features such as data portability and collaboration.

AIR technology has been demonstrated by new applications from companies such as FedEx, eBay, Nickelodeon, Nasdaq, and AOL all of which can be used once you download and install the free AIR runtime on your desktop.

AIR is available for Windows and Mac currently, the Linux version should be out soon.