WWDC 2013, it’s not all bad

Well, it happened, Apple sold 5000 WWDC tickets in 90-seconds. Amazing. Of course it wasn’t all roses for everyone. Some people saw errors after thinking they got a ticket, others instantly got the “Sorry, we’re sold out message.” That’s not the story.

The story, at least to me, is the few developers who believe they are somehow more deserving a ticket than others. That’s a bunch of hogwash. No one developer is more deserving of a ticket than any other. This is how things should work. First come, first served. If you didn’t score a ticket, try again next year. I was able to attend WWDC 2011, Steve Jobs final keynote. I understand why developers really want to attend. It’s a chance for us to hear about new and exciting things before anyone else. We also get to hang out with friends and talk to other developers. That’s probably the most important part of the week; hanging out with friends.

I’ve read too many gripes that say it was their chance to meet others and hang out, and now that opportunity is gone. Why is it gone? Come to California that week and go to an alternative event if it really is that important to you. What’s stopping you? Nothing but you. I get why it’s important to connect with other developers and have dinner and a few beers. It’s a time to unwind, let your hair down, as they say. In 2011 I was able to hang out with a longtime friend. We hadn’t seen each other for ten years. It was a great time.

Alternative

Yes, there is a great alternative to WWDC that same week. You can attend AltWWDC, and it’s free!

If you missed getting a ticket and believe its important to get together with fellow Apple Developers you have a place to go.

Hopefully I’ll be able to attend at least one day, maybe two. If I do make it, I hope to make some new friends.

Maybe I’ll see you there?