Apple WebObjects going open source?

ThinkSecret writes that WebObjects, the Apple database software that is at the heart of its internal networks and the iTunes Music Store, will go open source next year.

ThinkSecret thinks this cements the software's role and future at Apple.

Maybe. Let's assume a moment the story is accurate. (I have not been able to verify it independently.) What seems obvious to me is that Apple fears the database market within its OS is under severe threat from open source, and that it needs to give something back to its user base in order to stay in contention there.

This is a defensive move.

But when Apple finds it must give away an important piece of technology to the community in order to maintain its viability, what does that say about open source generally?

I think that's obvious, but I'll let y'all discuss that among yourselves.