Nokia Lumia 950

That's why it pains me to see the Windows 10 update in the Lumia 950 fall so short of its promise. The hardware itself is fine, if disappointingly uninspired. But the software, especially the buggy new Continuum feature that's supposed to let you turn...

Microsoft's Lumia 950 takes good pictures, has a crystal clear screen and a removable battery. The Cortana voice assistant and offline maps remain perks.

Windows phones still have a huge app deficit compared to iPhone and Android. The 950's standout Continuum feature is buggy and cumbersome, and requires separate hardware to use. The phone's ho-hum design feels dated.

The Lumia 950 is a mostly average smartphone, giving iPhone and Android users no reason to switch, and offering little appeal outside Windows phone diehards.