[BillAvi]

Why haven't developers started to trumpet what they're working on? Are they forbidden by Apple? Usually developers release info on what they're working on to get you ready to spend, spend, spend. I mean, if 10 companies come out with near identical programs, the one that got promoted the most usually wins.

[QSilver]

I'd guess NDA. Or saving to see if they're really ready to ship at WWDC.

QS

[GORDYmac]

Well, since iPhone development is still new, I don't see the benefit in letting the world know what you're working on.

[Visnaut]

Originally Posted by BillAvi 

I mean, if 10 companies come out with near identical programs <snip>

Well, I think that's just it. Companies and developers in general want to avoid a lot of copy-cat applications, so they're holding their cards close to their chest at the moment.

Developers want to hit the ground running when Apple finally lets the public have at the App Store. And at that point, there will likely be some apps that do the same thing. The differences will be how well they do those things, and spilling the beans in public will give their competition a leg up.

And since Apple holds the keys to Developer Program acceptance and application distribution, there's the potential for a situation where Developer A, who has divulged lots about their innovative, unique app, may get beaten to the punch to actually appearing on the App Store by some free knock-off by Developer B. Or likewise for iFund submissions.

Once the App Store is released, and the Developer Program is open to all developers (instead of a hand-picked few), you'll see the openness we're used to, as the speed to market will be more in the developer's hands, rather than Apple's.

[alex_kac]

Yup.

[cold aspiration]

I was actually wondering the exact same thing now that I nabbed myself an iPhone. It is going to be super exciting

[imitchellg5]

The NDA certainly is part of it, but there is no reason why you'd tell everyone what you are working on in today's world.