As an Apple developer, thinkenhaus has experienced firsthand the frustrations associated with Apple's App Store approval process. I recently stumbled upon this old article from Macblogz.com in which the author details the many reasons so many developers have already given up on iPhone development.  That said, the boutique nature of iPhone development creates enormous opportunities for small companies and start-ups.  Few platforms can match the App Store's speed at which a developer can bring a product to market, regardless of a clear set of guidelines. In a way the App Store has leveled the playing field, allowing small companies to be featured right alongside the big boys.  This is why we continue on our own development quests...

“Without development guidelines, there is no way to know for certain if an application or game you are spending your time on, will get approved by Apple. In which case, you can organically appeal the decision and hope the community picks up your story, in which case word gets around to Apple that people are angered and they reverse the decision. Or perhaps they will realize that they made a mistake in rejecting your application/game and reverse the decision. Either way, Apple’s communication thus far has not been comforting to say the least.”

www.macblogz.com/2008/11/18/all-i-want-for-the-holidays-are-app-store-development-guidelines/