Should Apple Release iMessage to Android?
Apple’s messaging service iMessage allows users to communicate in a variety of useful and convenient methods, including messaging over wi-fi, read receipts and a video chat feature called FaceTime. The issue many users have with iMessage, however, is that it is offered only on Apple devices. Individuals that own Android products are unable to take advantage of these features Additionally, people that own iPhones are unable to use iMessage with others who do not own iPhones. Many wonder why Apple would not release iMessage to Android devices, and the question can be answered using the principle of direct-benefit technologies.
The benefits of iMessage can only be enjoyed between two users who both own an Apple product, so it can be considered a direct benefit technology. If Apple was to release iMessage to Android products, many more users would be able to benefit from the features and Apple’s product would be more widespread. In doing so, however, they would take a unique feature available only on their devices and make it available to all. This would reduce the incentive to use Apple devices. Since Apple makes far more money selling phones and computers than it does with programs like iMessage, it is not in their best interest to release iMessage for Android devices.
An in-depth discussion on various other considerations can be found below:
Would It Make Sense for Apple to Release iMessage on Android?