Apple apparently hasn't told developers much, except that apps for the demo next month should be available in full resolution.

But if they're not the future, the company needs to tell developers now, rather than stringing them along.

Much as the company would like to keep schtum about its software innovations, it has to tell developers in advance.

Want to tell interested developers evaluating the platform about new, forthcoming features?

State officials have told developers that at least 50 percent of the new city's housing, a mixture of condominium apartments and single-family homes, must be "affordable."

"I would not give an all-out endorsement and tell developers that auctions are the way to go," Mr. Nevas said.

Microsoft has been telling developers to be careful, and to make sure they do the right thing, for many years now.

The state owns the property and told developers the shelter would be vacant.

But Brookfield has scared off potential buyers by telling rival developers and public officials that it has the exclusive right to develop the site.

And, as he coolly told other developers last fall at the annual meeting of the Urban Land Institute here, braving opposition is his duty.