Apple has announced that it is removing some of the NDA restrictions on developers talking to each other about how their iPhone applications work. This restriction was widely criticised as stifling collaboration and innovation. Already developers are taking the opportunity to start sharing some of their frustrations with developing for the platform and the approval process for applications. This includes an unofficial list of application rejection criteria.

Apple have also seem to have relaxed a restriction on allowing applications that duplicate Apple functionality by allowing IBM to release a Lotus Notes application. It may not be that much of a relaxing though. This may be more of an indication that Apple will allow large companies with lots of money and lawyers to do things it won't allow independent developers to do.

Would it be cynical of me to ponder that this may have a lot to do with the imminent release of a Google Android based phone?