number is an very ambiguous term.

It would be helpful if there was an indication of values that can return as non-integral.

In a javascript context this is not an issue, but most devs, myself included, need to know when to use an int/long vs double/decimal in order to properly define schemas and objects.

a possible solution would be to follow MS format and indicate with an integer flag.

update:

yes, I understand that you are returning a 'number' so technically the spec is correct. but what good does that do your audience?

Should I make every object field and database column a float so it doesn't break unexpectedly because I guessed wrong what datatype I should use?

Sure, I can guess, and correctly in most cases, but you are not guessing and your data fields are not all floats - are you picking up what I am putting down?

number is of questionable value to all but the most trivial applications of the api and downgrading the spec because of the limitations of transport is a mistake in my opinion.