Apple waitlists iPhone Developer Program applicants

Developers hoping to build native iPhone apps have been put on hold when attempting to enroll in Apple's iPhone Developer Program -- at least temporarily.

The program gives access to additional resources on Apple's Web site and code-level support from Apple engineers. It also provides code testing tools like a simulator that enables developers to see how their project actually runs. And, it will give developers the ability to distribute their offerings through the forthcoming App Store when that software distribution venue arrives this summer.

But last week, some software makers who applied to be part of the Developer Program received an e-mail from Apple that said their membership had been turned down for the time being.

"As this time, the iPhone Developer Program is available to a limited number of developers and we plan to expand during the beta period," the e-mail sent to these developers said. "We will contact you again regarding your enrollment status at the appropriate time."

Some developers contacted by Macworld said that they've received the wait-list notification, but that they're proceeding on building iPhone apps using the SDK released by Apple two weeks ago. In less than a week, the SDK had been downloaded more than 100,000 times, suggesting that developers are clamoring for the chance to build native iPhone apps.

"When I first received the notice, I thought of it as a rejection, but over the past few days, I've come to the conclusion that it's more of a courtesy note," said Daniel Jalkut, owner of Red Sweater Software, developer of the MarsEdit blog publishing software. Jalkut said that he applied for the program the same day the announcement was made.

Developers shouldn't be surprised that there's a waiting list to get into the Developer Program, according to Michael Gartenberg, vice president and research director at JupiterResearch. "Apple said from day one that while the program was going to be open to everyone eventually, during the beta period they were going to limit enrollment," Gartenberg said. "And anyone can download the SDK for free."

Still, some developers worry that being unable to join the iPhone Developer Program now could put them at a disadvantage down the road. One who asked not to be identified told Macworld that while having the SDK is a start, he's hamstrung by not having access to the simulator or a way of testing on an iPhone or iPod touch.

"This is especially true for anyone wanting to create a game or use any of the hardware features, therefore there is an entire category of applications that cannot be built unless we're accepted into the iPhone Dev program," he said.