Californian gadget maker Apple has removed the requirement that developers pledge an oath of secrecy on the contents of the iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK).

Apple said it had decided to drop the non-disclosure agreement (NDA) for released iPhone software on Wednesday, just days after Google championed the ‘openness’ of its own Android platform with the release of the G1.

Apple admitted that the NDA was “too much of a burden on developers,” even though its original intentions were to protect Apple’s intellectual property. Under the new regime, developers will be able to discuss the SDK and publish tips and solutions to help others.

Ultimately, Apple probably believes that relinquishing a little control over the iPhone SDK will encourage more developers to build apps and boost the attractiveness of the platform. It’s a move that can’t hurt as Apple seeks to carve itself a bigger niche in the handset space.