Apple Blocks Efforts to Bring iMessage to Android
A few days after Beeper announced a way for users to send blue-bubble iMessages from their Android devices, Apple has taken steps to shut it down. The company claims it was simply trying to do right by users and protect the privacy and security of their iMessages.
In a statement released by Apple, it was made clear that “fake credentials”, which exploited protections Apple had put in place, were used to gain access to iMessage. According to the company’s senior PR manager, Nadine Haija, this posed significant risks to user security and privacy.
Apple acknowledged Beeper’s process supposedly works with no compromise to encryption or privacy. But it insisted that it posed risks for users and the people they chat with. The company added that its products and services were built with privacy and security in mind, designed to offer users control over their data and keep personal information safe.
The bigger picture here is that Apple has previously stated it doesn’t want to bring iMessage to Android. Various efforts have been made but the company has resisted.
Beeper has been working to get iMessage back up and running again after being shut down by Apple. They argue that their service allows iPhone users to send encrypted messages to Android users, something that is not possible with unencrypted SMS messages.
Beeper’s founder, Eric Migicovsky, claims that Beeper’s stance hasn’t changed even after hearing Apple’s statement. He said he’d be willing to share Beeper’s code with Apple for a security review. However, he’s prepared to do battle with Apple’s security team in order to continue providing the platform.
Apple has made it clear that it intends to maintain control and protect users from any risks associated with attempts to bypass their security measures. The battle between Apple and Beeper is likely to continue as the latter seeks to bring iMessage to Android devices.