14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has done the unthinkable and has released an Android application that lures fans of Google’s mobile platform into switching to Windows Phone operating system.
Moreover, the application is now live on Google Play for everyone to check it out. Dubbed Switch to Windows Phone, it allows Android users to see how many of their applications are available on Windows Phone platform as well.
However, Switch to Windows Phone does not tell users how good the Windows Phone application is in comparison with the Android version.
According to the official description, you will be able to “use Switch to Windows Phone to see how many of your Android apps are available on Windows Phone. Just run Switch to Windows Phone on your Android, and this app will check to see if your installed apps are available in the Windows Phone Store. It’s that easy.”
There’s more to it, as Android users will be able to save the results, in order to retrieve them later on the Windows Phone device of their choice and install the applications they wish.
Unfortunately, aside from that, Switch to Windows Phone does not do anything else, like transferring your contacts, calendar or other info from your Android device to the new Windows Phone handset.
Basically, the application is scanning the Android smartphone or tablet for installed apps and makes a list with those that have Windows Phone equivalents.
Switch to Windows Phone will not make you switch to Windows Phone more, but it will help you make the transition smoother if you have already decided that Microsoft’s mobile platform is your favorite operating system.
Switch to Windows Phone 1.0.0.390 is now available as a free download via Google Play store and it should be fully compatible with all devices running Android 2.3.3 and up. Check it out here.
UPDATE: We've been receiving reports the application is not available globally. Users in the United States seem to be able to download it, but no other regions have been confirmed yet.