Do you yearn for iMessage on your Android device or Chromebook without the confines of an iPhone?
The ongoing debate of "blue bubbles vs. green bubbles" seems far from over.
If you're an Android user who also enjoys Mac devices, you don't have to miss out on group chats just because Apple hasn't embraced RCS yet.
While there have been existing solutions for this conundrum, we'll delve into those later.
Instead, let's guide you through the process of using iMessage on Android with the help of Beeper!
• Introducing Beeper:
Beeper made its debut back in 2020, and by January 2021, it already had enthusiasts buzzing.
Android veterans might recognize Beeper's leader, Eric Migicovsky, who also founded Pebble smartwatches.
What sets Beeper apart is its mission to unify various messaging services into a single app.
Currently, it supports an impressive array of 15 different services, including iMessage, Signal, and the more recent addition of Google's RCS messaging platform.
Here's the complete list of messaging apps Beeper supports:
• iMessage
• Facebook Messenger
• Telegram
• Signal
• Google RCS
• Android SMS
• Google Chat
• Slack
• Discord
Rather than cluttering your device with multiple apps, Beeper simplifies the messaging experience.
While you might miss out on some app-specific features, if your focus is on viewing and responding to messages, Beeper is the all-in-one solution you've been searching for.
It's essential to note that while Beeper is currently free to use, the company plans to introduce an optional paid subscription called "Beeper Plus" in 2023.
This subscription will offer additional features, such as larger chat history backups and unlimited network connections, for a monthly fee ranging from $5 to $10.
The company will provide ample warning before implementing these changes.
Getting Started
Before you embark on using iMessage on Android with Beeper, you'll need to ensure you have an Apple ID.
Even if you don't plan to use it immediately, creating a free Apple ID is a crucial first step.
Make sure to enable two-factor authentication for added security.
At the time of writing, Beeper is in its "Closed Beta" phase, which means you must sign up and patiently await an invitation.
Invitations have been in high demand, with some users on the waitlist for over a year.
For now, complete the sign-up form and hope for a sooner rather than later slot opening.
Once you receive your invitation email, you'll need a computer, whether it's a desktop or laptop.
Beeper is compatible with macOS, Windows, Linux, and even ChromeOS.
The company provides download links and guidance for installing the Beeper app on the best Chromebooks.
Setting Up iMessage with Beeper
1. Install Beeper on your preferred computer.
2. Follow on-screen instructions to create your Beeper account.
3. Download and open the Beeper app on your Android device.
4. Sign in with the email address associated with your Beeper account.
5. Verify your account by either scanning the QR code from the Beeper app on your computer or using the security code provided during the initial setup.
6. Once logged in on your phone, return to the Beeper app on your computer.
7. From the main window, click "Manage Chat Networks."
8. Select "iMessage" from the sidebar on the left.
9. Click "Start."
10. Enter your Apple ID and password, then click "Continue."
11. On your Apple device, click "Allow" in the pop-up window.
If you don't have an Apple device, confirm your login using your device with two-factor authentication.
12. Enter the verification code from Beeper into the app and click "Continue."
Beeper - The Unified Messenger
If being left out of group iMessage chats has been a pain, let Beeper come to your rescue.
It also serves as a central hub for nearly every other major messaging platform.
Using iMessage on Android with Beeper
1. Open the Beeper app on your Android phone.
2. Sign in if you haven't already.
3. Swipe up from the bottom to access the Expanded Dock.
4. Tap the Pencil button to initiate a new message.
5. Search for and select the contact you want to use iMessage with.
6. Choose "iMessage" from the list of options.
7. Compose your message and hit send!
Beeper Isn't the Only Solution for iMessage on Android
As mentioned earlier, Beeper isn't your sole option for experiencing iMessage on Android or non-Apple platforms.
Alternatives like AirMessage and BlueBubbles exist.
The key difference is the degree of control you have over the "stack," with server installation and setup on your devices.
Beeper, on the other hand, likely relies on a server room filled with budget-friendly Mac Minis linked to your Apple ID.
The app claims to employ end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and the recipient can access your iMessages.
If you're drawn to the idea of consolidating 15 different messaging services in one app but prefer not to host your data with Beeper, there's a solution.
Beeper utilises the open-source Matrix protocol, enabling you to set up self-hosting. The company offers instructions on its GitHub page for this purpose.
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