Apple recently announced that it has taken steps to block techniques that exploit fake credentials to access iMessage in an effort to protect user security and privacy. This move comes in response to Beeper Mini, a service that enables Android users to connect directly to Apple’s iMessage without using a remote Mac. Beeper Mini works by sending messages directly through Apple’s service, eliminating the need for any middlemen or third-party servers.

Apple’s decision to block Beeper Mini stems from concerns about potential security risks, privacy issues, and unencrypted messaging. Despite Beeper’s claims that its service keeps user messages private, Apple remains firm in its decision to cut off Beeper Mini.

Beeper Mini founder Eric Migicovsky, who is also known for creating Pebble smartwatches, has expressed his frustration with Apple’s stance, questioning why the tech giant would prefer its users to send unencrypted SMS messages to Android users rather than using a secure messaging service. Migicovsky’s argument is based on the idea that enabling encrypted messages between iPhone and Android users would benefit everyone. However, Apple has continued to prioritize keeping iMessage under its control.

While Apple has announced plans to support RCS (Rich Communication Services) in the future, it seems that the divide between iPhone and Android users will persist, at least for the time being. This means that Android users will still be identified as such by iPhone owners, despite the similarities between iMessage and RCS. These developments highlight the ongoing battle between different messaging platforms and the challenges of achieving seamless communication across different devices.