Last week, Steve Jobs broke the news that Apple will release a software development kit for the iPhone in February. This means the iPhone will be opened up to third-party developers and we’ll (once again) be able to add some extra functionality to our phones.

The reason why we have to wait a few months is security. Since the iPhone is the worlds most advanced phone, it’s a highly visible target for viruses and malicious programs, says Jobs. You know, people demand things like third-party applications without thinking about the consequences of opening up a platform too early. It’s important to take the time to work on security before opening it up to developers.

Like Steve Jobs says, a few months of patience is a small price to pay for many years of great third-party applications. I personally can’t believe people ever doubted that the iPhone would be open to developers. I mean, it just doesn’t make any sense why Apple wouldn’t want third-party applications.

The iPhone is a revolutionary phone, it really is. It’s the most advanced phone ever made, and Apple has been tooting that horn since they released the device in June. The thing is, it’s revolutionary not only in terms of technology and innovation but also because it has huge potential for extending the functionality of this new technology. I’m not talking just games and small-time tools; just imagine what the people at Skype, Adobe or even Microsoft can bring to the iPhone.

This is not just a question of demand; third-party applications are a part of the whole concept of the iPhone. I don’t think people realize how great potential it really has for extension and development. By giving third-party developers the chance to bring their own ideas into the iPhone, Apple is opening the doors to a whole world of possibilities.

Think about the iPhone for a while, as it is today. The beautiful design, smooth multi-touch input, fantastic display — it’s the greatest phone ever made. You’ve got video, music, organization and communication right there in your pocket, wrapped up in sleek package.

Now take a moment to imagine the same phone with a few more applications. You’re sitting in a café browsing the internet, as you get a call through Skype. Later at the gym, you use your iPhone to check your training program and scribble down your progress using your favorite fitness application. And when you finally get home, you can use the same device to tune your guitar.

Doesn’t that sound even more exciting to you?