OnLive Desktop brings Office, Flash to tablets

For all its popularity, there are a few glaring limitations to the tablet computer. One of the most apparent is the lack of certain popular software. Much of this is due to the fact that tablets are still relatively new, but for those who have come to expect to access certain programs when needed, this can be somewhat frustrating.

OnLive® may be able to change this. The company, better known for its video game streaming services, has introduced a new application designed to stream a virtual desktop on the iPad® and Android™ tablet computers.

The app, dubbed OnLive Desktop, currently works with a number of Microsoft® Office programs, as well as Adobe's Flash® and Reader. Users do not need to already own the programs, the Associated Press reports.

There are some limitations to OnLive Desktop. For starters, typing on programs like Word is still a challenge on the tablet's virtual keyboard, though the news provider does point out that the app syncs with a detachable keyboard. Files cannot be saved directly to the tablet either, but there are a few cloud-based alternatives that may solve this issue.

What sort of staying power OnLive Desktop has is a valid question. Adobe® has indicated it may soon axe Flash for mobile devices, while rumors are spreading that Microsoft will release its Office for tablets by the end of 2012. Still, OnLive Desktop will likely provide a much-appreciated service for those who want access to the programs sooner rather than later.