A short note here that doesn't impact directly on Windows Phone, but does increase the reach and flexibility of the ecosystem - Microsoft and Apple have come to an agreement and iOS owners can now download an updated version of the SkyDrive client to their devices. The update had previsouly been held back due to a disagreement between Apple and Microsoft on in app-purchasing.

Apple's policy on in-app purchasing is that 30% of the revenue should flow to Apple, while Microsoft argued that a SkyDrive storage update, because it was not confined to the iOS app but over the whole infrastructure. 

While the resolution of that sticking point is not known, it has been resolved (which may pave the way for an iOS version of Office at some point in 2013). One notable difference between the iOS version of SkyDrive and the versions on other platforms is the purchase of additional space takes place through a web link, rather than in the app itself.

The update also brings support for the iPhone 5 and iPad Mini, a refreshed look and feel, the ability to download full resolution photos, and control the size of uploaded photos.

Microsoft has made many of its service components available on other mobile platforms, but says its own services will continue to be "first and best" on Windows Phone. Given the fractured nature of the mobile market making services available across multiple mobile platforms is the only sensible approach, but it does dilute some of the ecosystem advantage from Microsoft's own mobile platform.

iOS owners can download the app from the iTunes App Store.