UPDATE
It's done.
The picture below is a is a sad indictment on Microsoft. Is this what Satya Nadella wants?
In any case, the results have been really positive so far.
Any fondness for Windows mobile's unique UI are quickly being forgotten after experiencing Apple's amazing app performance. Banking and proper FB apps are really appreciated.
Some comments after setting up x3 iPhone 6s & x1 iPad Air II:
- iTunes still sucks. Fortunately you don't need to use it for anything much, but I was asked to add a custom ring tone. My god, it was a painful process.
- I wanted to change the notification alert for Skype. Apple says NO! (same for Messenger).
- You can't set up an iPhone without a SIM card - which is kinda annoying.
- Each device is connected to Outlook.com accounts, but through Apple apps rather than Microsoft's Outlook app just because I thought it would be easier. Contacts & emails sync two-way. Excellent.
- Microsoft really needs to tidy up their contacts system. It was frustrating linking Skype & Outlook.com contacts. I still don't know how it all works. The fact that Skype is a different division to the rest of Microsoft really shows.
- Microsoft apps on iOS work really well. OneDrive is great. If your email is coming from Outlook.com, I reckon it makes good sense to use OneDrive over iCloud.
- Siri is great - fast, accurate & responsive.
I'm pleased I went with iOS over Android for my family - no launches, app drawers, or widgets. It's more inline with Windows mobile in terms of OS simplicity. However, I still reckon the Windows mobile UI is easier to use. The back button and the search magnifying glass on Windows are initiative & useful. The location of the back button in iOS varies.
I downloaded the Google search app on each device. For one, the Bing app isn't even available in New Zealand!
I like to think I've set-up each device with the best on offer from Microsoft, Apple & Google.
My brother & dad still have Windows devices - but they only phone & text (my brother is still on WP7!). But I'll swap them over next.
I'm still rocking my 950 XL. Whether I change to Samsung or Apple will be decided in Sept/Oct.