They're aiming to be the equivalent of the W3C. They write the specifications and private companies build the clients, just like web browsers for the internet.

They're aiming to be the equivalent of the W3C. They write the specifications and private companies build the clients, just like web browsers for the internet. Ethereum's aim is to be a neutral platform for exchange of value, as big and important as the internet. Having one company make the official client would undermine that.