We're not quite sure how it got all the way to version 8, but the new Windows Phone OS unveiled last week has certainly come a long way since its launch less than two years ago. Set to release at or around the same time as iOS 6 in autumn, Windows Phone is clearly positioning itself as an alternative to Apple's juggernaut, and it looks like we've got another Windows 95-Mac OS 8 knock-down, drag-out battle ahead.
Microsoft gets automatic points here for uniqueness, with its conscious, don't-even-think-about-suing-us break from Apple's neat rows of icons. Microsoft has doubled-down on its square concept in Windows Phone 8, with fully customizable tiles, color options and greater personalization over the whole screen. It's a matter of taste, but Microsoft has created a very compelling counterpunch to Apple's timeless interface.
Edge: Even
Both companies have completely revamped their respective maps apps for their upcoming releases, with Apple bringing the whole operation in-house and Microsoft ditching Bing in favor of Nokia. They're surprisingly similar, from the turn-by-turn navigation to Flyover, with Nokia even using the same 3D landscapes from C3 Technologies (which, oddly enough, Apple owns). We expect iOS Maps to bring a bit more veneer, but there's not a whole lot to differentiate the two until we have a chance to use them.
Edge: Even
If the new iPhone has NFC support we might change our minds, but we can't imagine the current Passbook app being a deal-maker for too many potential buyers. Windows Phone's Wallet, on the other hand, incorporates everything you need to ditch your billfold, including secure storage of credit cards, loyalty cards, gift cards, tickets and boarding passes.
Edge: Windows Phone
Right out of the box, FaceTime provides iPhone users with a first-class video conferencing app, and Apple has removed its only shortcoming in iOS 6 by opening it up to cellular networks. In response, Microsoft has built voice over IP deep into Windows Phone 8, but it's leaving the heavy lifting to third-party developers. Unless Apple loses its mind and creates a FaceTime app for the Windows Phone Marketplace, we're keeping our expectations low.
Edge: iOS
By the time she's ready to come out of beta, Siri will be smarter and savvier than ever, with last night's sports scores, tonight's movie times, Saturday's dinner reservations and directions to just about anywhere, not to mention the ability to launch apps. TellMe might not have as good of a personality as Siri, but it looks to be just as useful--most notably with app control (also available to third-party developers)--provided it can understand what we say.
Edge: Even
Microsoft may be making it easier for Windows developers to make mobile apps by sharing core technologies across its desktop and mobile spaces, but more than six times as many apps gives Apple a nearly insurmountable advantage.
Edge: iOS
Sorry, Lumia users. Microsoft won't be allowing you to upgrade to the full version of Windows Phone 8 (though they will be dressing up the start screen). Meanwhile, iPhone 4S owners will have access to all 200-plus features, iPhone 4 users will get everything except Flyover and 3G FaceTime, and even 3GS users will get a few goodies.
Edge: iOS
Hugh Tiernan
June 26, 2012 at 3:04pm
i disagree with you on the homescreen... Windows Phone definately comes out on top. iOS is too plain and being unchanged for years has left it boring!
joebinotto
June 28, 2012 at 6:31am
I agree on the home screen (& this coming from a die heart Apple fan). I would choose Microsoft's live tile format over iOS every time. WIth that said, I will still be purchasing the new iPhone on day 1 of its release. Come on Apple, give us more choices with the home screen!
chirpity
June 26, 2012 at 5:27pm
I agree, the home screen is quite nice. Although, I've come to realize that a lot depends on the choice of wallpaper on the iPhone.
BryceBooth
June 25, 2012 at 3:05pm
Well done review, it's incredibly refreshing to read one here which isn't ignorantly biased. The iPhone will be king for some time to come, but it's nice to see some variation in the marketplace with regards to updated technologies, and platforms.
