I fully understand why a developer would prefer the N9. I even understand why a user would. I've got both an N900 and an N9, so I like the spirit and software produced by developers of every level. That said, I have to take issue with the "apps don't matter" or "apps shouldn't matter" lines of argument.

I know you understand why all of these companies seem focused on ecosystem quality and why the number, diversity, and quality of software applications available on a given device delivers value to users of that device.

Apps provide value!

Apps make devices more useful, more fun, and more relevant. At the foundation, every developer needs to thank goodness that apps do provide this value, because that's why both pro and amateur developers are paid--whether they are paid by fee or by donation.

Diversity of app ecosystem is key, because--just like you--many people enjoy some apps, but the trick is that they all have different preferences as to which apps they like to use. Thus, if you want to sell many units to a broad market, you have to cover many different apps for all types of taste. That's understandable, right?

I've got an N900 and an N9, so like I said, I like the spirit and software produced by developers of every level.

You raise a very good point--there are costs and other requirements related to developing software. And, an ecosystem that is good for users by setting high standards and expensive development requirements may not be good for developers who don't want to pay for all of those requirements.

That said, you see why I fully understand why a developer would prefer the N9!

So what about developing for Android as a solution? There seem to be few barriers there, and Xda Developers, for example, seems like a robust community of developers to me. And I read that 75% of smartphones that shipped last quarter are running Android. What do Harmattan and Fremantle developers think of developing for Android?