Seems that all kinds of applications are going 'online', pushed by Google, followed by Microsoft and now Adobe. I must admit to still not having used a real 'web application' but the drive behind these must be pretty strong. And ad based revenue seems to be a huge part of some of these plans.

But are the ad revenues what are driving these apps, or is it actually a sign of future application delivery? I have a hard time thinking that an online version of any software could live up to a good old install, but on the other hand it's relatively easy to imagine a password protected subscription to more powerful online apps. Online usage would also play into ever present anti-piracy efforts.

Link to Photoshop online announcement:
Adobe flashes more looks at online Photoshop Express | Tech news blog - CNET News.com