We had an interesting discussion here about Katmai (the next SQL Server version)

Of course it was discussed in the latest MVP summit, but noone can say anything because it's all under NDA.

So i'm wondering why.... WHY is it under NDA? Is there some very special reason for that?

Nigel responded to my question with this:

I think it's more to do with managing expectations.
A lot of things talked about are under development and may be dropped from the product if they look like they might impact the release date.
They want an opinion on the usability of proposed functionality from a closed community before a public announcement and how the public might react.
Think the main reason though is so that they can talk freely without being worried about saying something that may be incorrect - bit like the difference between talking to your team and talking to the board or investors.
Or it could all just be a public relations exercise.

Somehow i don't think MS has anything to worry about here...

What do you think?

P.S. yes i'm jealous :)