iPhone 15 set up: apps stuck on Loading…/ Waiting

That is normal...

When transitioning from one iPhone to another, it's essential to note that the actual applications don't seamlessly transfer between devices. Instead, what is transferred is the app data, accompanied by links redirecting to the respective apps on the App Store.

Important Points to Remember:

1. App Data, Not Entire Apps: While Quick Start transfers app data, it doesn't transfer the entire app itself. After the transfer, your new iPhone will automatically download the compatible versions of those apps from the App Store.
2. App Compatibility: If an app is no longer available in the App Store or isn't compatible with the new iPhone's iOS version, the transferred app data won't be usable.
3. Content Not Transferred: Quick Start doesn't transfer certain types of content, including:
   1. iTunes and App Store purchases (like music or ebooks)
   2. PDFs downloaded directly to Apple Books
   3. Content synced from iTunes (like imported music or videos)
   4. Data already stored in iCloud (like photos, messages, or contacts)
   5. Data synced to email accounts (contacts, reminders, notes, calendars)
   6. Specific settings like Face ID/Touch ID, Apple Pay information, Apple Mail data, and Apple Music data.

By understanding these details, you can make informed decisions about transferring your data to your new iPhone using Quick Start.

Hidden user cost of the hours it takes for this step.

Conveniently omitted by the IT folks. I hope this stuff happens to them.

Fails the SO test. Test new stuff on your SO. If they can tolerate it then it might be ready for the rest of us.