Returning to Windows from Apple

Question

Has anyone else had the most exasperating experience of trying to move back from Apple to Microsoft?

Go into into any of the Apple stores (of which there are many) and you are transferred from Windows to Apple, seamlessly and swiftly, with knowledgable personal help. Appointments quickly available online.

Try to return to Windows/Microsoft and you find yourselves in subject circles online, being asked if you are in Arkansas when looking for a dealer (I'm logged into my 365 account so my IP must say I'm in the UK?).

I've travelled 120 miles twice to the MS Centre in London Oxford Circus.The first time a request about moving from Ipad/Imac to Windows/Surface, was met by the vaguest of replies. A security man seemed to know more. Returning a second time, a slightly more helpful sales assistant told me my potential Surface purchase was not in stock. A visit to John Lewis yesterday, also said no Surfaces were in stock. Lots of iPads,, 'were I to upgrade'.

Does anyone have this experience? Is there a network of MS suppliers who can support both sales and support in returning to Windows from Apple/IOS? This can't be unique? MS must be missing an opportunity by comparison. I am trying to return, as Windows seems more businesslike.

We are happy to buy - we are a small charity.. The contrast in service with Apple so far is breathtakingly poor.

Answer 1

Hi Andrew MacPherson1,

Thank you for reaching Microsoft Community. I'm sorry to hear about your experience. I understand that you are trying to move back from Apple to Microsoft and you are having difficulty finding support.

Firstly, I would like to ask if you have already purchased a Microsoft Surface device or are you still in the process of deciding which one to buy? If you haven't purchased one yet, I recommend checking the Microsoft Store website to see if the Surface device you want is available for purchase. You can also check with authorized resellers in your area to see if they have the device in stock. See: Microsoft Surface PCs, Computers, Laptops, 2-in-1s, Dual-Screen & All-in-Ones | Microsoft Surface

You can also find Surface devices from the authorized retailers listed here: Get your Surface direct from Microsoft or Find a Retailer – Microsoft Surface

If you have already purchased a Surface device, I recommend checking out the Microsoft Surface support website for assistance with setting up and using your device. Here are some articles that you can check for details and guide:

• New to Surface | Welcome to Surface Beginner's Guide, Tips & Tricks | Microsoft
• Set up your Surface - Microsoft Support
• Sync the files on your computer with your mobile device - Microsoft Support
• Move your files to a new Windows PC - Microsoft Support
• Import photos and videos from an iPhone to PC - Microsoft Support

In terms of finding support for returning to Windows from Apple, you can also check with our authorized retailers listed on the given page (Get your Surface direct from Microsoft or Find a Retailer – Microsoft Surface). They can help you with transferring your data from your Apple device to your Surface device and provide support for any issues you may encounter during the transition.

Additionally, we also have a dedicated support team that can assist you with any questions or issues you may encounter. You can contact them through these steps below:

1. Go to Contact Us - Microsoft Support
2. Choose how you would like to get support for your Surface device.
3. Type in the problem you need help with.
4. Look at any available solutions offered and select Contact Support.

You can also check this forum article for a more detailed guide in reaching our live support: How to get Phone and Chat Support (for Surface Home/Consumer - Microsoft Community

I hope this information helps. Let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.

Kind regards,
Marrion

Answer 2

Thankyou for your response.

I have purchased a refurbished Surface device to try and initially explore returning to Windows and whether it’s feasible with the limited support available.

I am based in the East of England IP6 9PY where there appears to be no dedicated resellers/ expertise.

The retailers you list in your link are either online ( Amazon) or not experts (PC World and John Lewis).

Regards

Andrew

Answer 3

Hi Andrew MacPherson1,

Thank you for the response and details added. I understand that you just like to get some expert support make the transition from Apple to Microsoft easier. Considering that there are no Microsoft Stores near you and that authorized retailers does not offer this expertise needed also, the best option would be to reach out our live support through phone or chat and get the support needed. They would be able to provide you free technical support. Also, you can always post concerns or issues that you might encounter on your Surface here in the Community.

Kind regards,
Marrion

Answer 4

Thank you for your further response.

I understand there is online help available (for most platforms).

What I was deploring was the surprising lack of personal/ retail/ high street support when compared to Apple?

I am prepared to travel, but so far all I have been offered is generalist shop chains.

Apart from my frustration ( which surely must be shared), commercially it seems a missed opportunity?