When you switch from an iPhone to atop budget Android phone, you lose access to some Apple-exclusive features and apps like AirDrop, iMessage, Notes, and more. As for iMessage, the Android ecosystem does have some of thetop encrypted messaging apps, but many users miss the convenience of iMessage for staying in touch with friends and family. Since Apple doesn’t offer an iMessage solution on Android, your options are limited.
Apple is expected to announce support forRCSat this year’s WWDC. Until then, you’ll rely on third-party solutions to continue your iMessage conversations on Android. There have been several failed attempts byNothing, Beeper, and Sunbird to bring a seamless iMessage experience to Android. If you use a Mac, explore AirMessage to send or receive iMessages securely on your Android phone.
What is AirMessage?
AirMessage is a third-party messaging service that allows you to use iMessage on non-Apple devices. It’s available on Android and the web.
You’ll establish an AirMessage Server on your Mac and keep the device awake to get started. The service acts as a bridge between your Mac and other devices to forward and send iMessages on the go.
The solution is more secure than Nothing, Beeper, and Sunbird. However, it requires a separate Mac (with your Apple ID) that acts as a server that constantly looks for new iMessages. AirMessage is free to download and use. Let’s check it in action.
AirMessage requirements
Here’s what you need to send or receive iMessages via AirMessage on Android.
Set up AirMessage Server on Mac
We will first install AirMessage on a Mac and go through a trick to keep your Mac awake.
We use the redesigned System Settings app in the screenshots below. The System Preferences menu may look different if you have an older macOS build.
Tweak your Mac settings
You must tweak your Mac settings so that it stays on all the time and runs AirMessage Server in the background. You can use third-party apps, likeSleep Control CentreorAmphetamine, or make changes from the Battery menu.
Use AirMessage on your Android phone or tablet
Now that you have AirMessage Server up and running, download the mobile app on your Android phone.
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Troubleshoot AirMessage on Android and Mac
Do you have issues using AirMessage on Android? Try some of the fixes below for a smooth iMessage experience.
BlueBubbles: Another way to send iMessages from your Android
BlueBubbles is another AirMessage alternative that can be used to communicate via iMessage on Android. It requires creating a Google Firebase Console project, which is a lengthy process. The idea is to minimize background battery usage when the app is not in focus.
The service uses Google’s Firebase Service to send notifications to your Android phone when new iMessages arrive. Check thisdedicated guideif you are interested in using BlueBubbles.
What happened to Beeper?
Beeper made a name for itself by announcing iMessage support on Android. However, the service went through a lot of drama, and the Beeper Mini app was removed from the Google Play Store. Automattic (the maker of WordPress) bought the company and created anew Beeper Chat appthat sends and receives messages on 14 chat networks. However, iMessage is not on the list of supported apps. SinceApple is being sued by the US governmentfor blocking Beeper Mini’s access to iMessage, the company is optimistic about adding iMessage support in the future.
iMessage on Android is far from perfect
You’ll rely on alternatives like AirMessage or BlueBubbles to send or receive messages until Apple supports RCS or develops an iMessage app for Android. While these apps do the job, they don’t offer an ideal experience and leave much to be desired. You can ditch iMessage and explore thetop cross-platform communication appsto start conversations.
