I believe Mavericks changed things with the syncing. You can sync contacts very easily by using iCloud, along with Calendars and Notes. Change something on one device, and it automatically changes on ALL devices linked to the "cloud" Works a treat. As for mail settings and anything mail, I noticed the same thing. I wasn't sure if it was the fact my ISP decided to change the way IT works, or whether it was Mavericks. In the end I just "added" the accounts manually on my iPad Air. When I say manually, I just went through the process of adding the accounts, and the iPad found all the settings itself. It may well depend on what ISP, or email service you are using, but once I set mine up, they sync with my iMac no problem. Hope this helps in some way, or points you in the right direction. Tony