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Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

The world of task management apps is highly competitive, with standout options like Any.do, Todoist, and Wunderlist leading the pack. But how do they stack up, and which is right for you? We'll break it down. Read More

Over the years, Wunderlist has been a top choice for its intuitive design across Android and iOS. Wunderlist: The Best To-Do List App on iPhone [iOS] Its sleek interface makes task tracking effortless for anyone. Read More

Unfortunately, Wunderlist's days are numbered. In this guide, drawn from years of testing productivity tools, I'll explain its shutdown, the replacement app, and seamless migration steps.

The End of Wunderlist

Launched in 2011, Wunderlist quickly rose to prominence thanks to features like shared lists, comments, subtasks, task assignments, and hashtag organization.

Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

Microsoft acquired it in June 2015 for a reported $150 million. Users were skeptical, given Microsoft's history of sunsetting acquired apps, much like Google.

In April 2017, Microsoft confirmed Wunderlist's end, announcing integration into a new app called To Do. Here's their official statement on the plans.

Loyal fans were disappointed, sparking questions: What features carried over? What's new? And crucially, how to migrate data? Damn Microsoft! Here's how to export your Wunderlist to Todoist, Trello, or other task managers. Read More

What is Microsoft To Do?

The rollout of To Do was foreshadowed by a 2016 leak of "Project Cheshire," criticized for its simplicity. Microsoft has since enhanced it significantly.

Now in preview (full launch imminent), it's available on Android, iOS, Windows Store, and web. Download - Android | iOS | Windows application

Key new features include:

1. Smart Suggestions

The standout "My Day" feature pulls tasks into your daily planner. Tap the light bulb icon to access intelligent suggestions based on due dates, importance, and patterns.

Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

Select tasks with the + icon from your incomplete list.

Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

2. Microsoft Office Integration

Built for Office 365, To Do integrates deeply with Microsoft services, including encryption and security. It syncs seamlessly with Outlook Tasks. 10 Free Microsoft Apps That Don't Suck.

Expect broader rollouts, consolidating Microsoft's task tools.

What's Missing?

While promising, some Wunderlist staples are absent:

1. Collaboration

No shared lists yet, limiting team use. Microsoft promises it's coming soon.

Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

2. Third-Party Integrations

Limited to Outlook; no Zapier or Slack. More are planned. 3 Productivity Quick Tips Every Microsoft Outlook User Should Start Using. Read More

3. Attachments

No file uploads or Dropbox sync—tasks are notes and checkboxes only.

Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

4. Subtasks

No subtasks or folders; import tool warns of this.

Timelines for these are unclear.

How to Migrate from Wunderlist to To Do

Microsoft's import tool handles the switch (also works for Todoist). Visit the site and click Start importing.

Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

Sign in with your Microsoft account, grant permissions, select Wunderlist, choose lists/notes, handle subtasks, and import.

Microsoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the TransitionMicrosoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the TransitionMicrosoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the TransitionMicrosoft To Do vs. Wunderlist: Complete Guide to Features, Migration, and the Transition

Process time varies by data volume.

Will You Switch to To Do?

We've covered To Do's strengths, gaps, and migration. As a productivity expert who's managed teams with these tools, I see potential despite early limitations.

Microsoft's recent wins suggest they'll honor Wunderlist's legacy. Share your thoughts: Wunderlist die-hard? Switching or exploring alternatives? Comment below!