: Is it acceptable to make a Windows Phone 8 app that looks like an iOS app? I'm trying to transition some clients apps to Windows Phone 8. These particular clients want their apps to look

@Ravi4787994

Microsoft may reject the app, at least in the early days of the Windows Store. They're trying hard to ensure apps meet their design criteria. Depending on exactly how it looks, you may still be fine though.

I think there's two main considerations, assuming you'd be able to get the app onto the store:


An iOS-like app on Windows Phone will seem out of place and likely be met with user disdain.
You may end up recreating quite a few features of iOS in the process.


The second point is important — you client may be looking to save money by reducing the amount of work. If you app has iOS navigation controllers, iOS switches (UISwitch), they may be in for a shock if it has to be reimplemented on Windows Phone. You could be talking about many weeks of additional work for an experienced engineer.

I don't think there's any issue in having a heavily branded app that looks a bit iOS-like, but conforms to Windows Phone design patterns and workflows. You'll end up with a better product, happier users and it'll probably be cheaper to build.

Short version: They may change their mind when they realise it costs more.

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@Ravi4787994

I don't know of any place that MS has explicitly stated that they will reject anything that looks like iOS. On the other hand, I would be surprised if there isn't an unspoken rule about it that would put you on the "don't rush with that one" list.

Regardless of the official rules, ignoring the fact that Windows Phone is visually a notably different environment from iOS is a slap in the face to the user. In the vast majority of cases, the user made a conscious decision to go against the mobile norm. Regardless of their motives, ignoring that is a mistake.

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