Yesterday, Apple announced the 2011 World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC), and the tickets to the conference, which cost $1,599 each, sold out within the first 12 hours. This rapid sell-out is a testament to the immense popularity and anticipation surrounding Apple’s annual event, which serves as a crucial platform for developers to learn about the latest advancements in Apple’s software and hardware.
The Significance of WWDC
WWDC is not just any conference; it is a pivotal event for developers who build applications and services for Apple’s ecosystem. The conference typically features a keynote address where Apple unveils its latest software updates, new technologies, and occasionally, new hardware. For instance, past WWDC events have seen the introduction of significant updates to iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS, as well as the announcement of new products like the Mac Pro and various iterations of the iPhone.
Given the importance of the event, it’s no surprise that tickets are in high demand. Developers attend WWDC to gain firsthand knowledge from Apple’s engineers, participate in hands-on labs, and network with other professionals in the industry. The opportunity to engage directly with Apple’s technical staff and get insights into the future direction of Apple’s platforms is invaluable.
Controversy Over Ticket Resale
Now, one developer has decided to sell an unactivated ticket on eBay, and it looks like they are charging more than double the original ticket price, which is hardly fair to developers who want to attend the conference and who didn’t manage to get a ticket. The resale of WWDC tickets at inflated prices has sparked controversy within the developer community.
The developer who is selling the ticket has apparently said that it belonged to a colleague who is no longer able to attend, but that doesn’t explain why he is trying to make a profit from the auction. This practice of reselling tickets at a higher price undermines the spirit of the event, which is meant to be an inclusive opportunity for all developers, regardless of their financial situation.
No doubt Apple will end up having this pulled from eBay when they find out about it. Apple has a strict policy against the resale of WWDC tickets, and they have been known to cancel tickets that are found to be resold. This is to ensure that the tickets go to genuine developers who are eager to learn and contribute to the Apple ecosystem.
The issue of ticket scalping is not unique to WWDC. Many high-demand events, from concerts to sports games, face similar challenges. However, in the context of a developer conference, the stakes are higher because the knowledge and networking opportunities provided can significantly impact a developer’s career and the quality of the apps and services they create.
In conclusion, while the resale of WWDC tickets at inflated prices is a contentious issue, it highlights the immense value and demand for the event. Developers are eager to be part of the Apple ecosystem and to gain insights that will help them create better products. It is crucial for Apple to continue to enforce its policies to ensure that WWDC remains an accessible and valuable experience for all developers.
Source TUAW, Mac Stories
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