NEWS  Apps  December 21, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Beeper has resurrected phone number registration for its iMessage on Android solution, a process entailing the use of a jailbroken iPhone or access to a Mac. However, this workaround, as per Beeper's own acknowledgment, might be the last stand for its Beeper Mini and Cloud services, with the current situation labeled as "unsustainable".

In a blog post titled "Moving Forward", Beeper expressed the belief that this latest workaround, essentially crowdsourcing the means to trick iMessage with users' own devices, might be something Apple can tolerate. This notion, however, stands in stark contrast to Apple's commitment to consistently update and fortify iMessage's security.

Beeper admitted that engaging in a cat-and-mouse game with the tech giant was an impossible feat, stating:

"Can't win a cat-and-mouse game with the largest company on earth."

The company further emphasized the "unsustainable" nature of the ongoing struggle, where each instance of Beeper Mini facing disruptions due to Apple's interference impacts Beeper's credibility. Remarkably, Beeper declared that it has no immediate plans to counter any potential shutdown of the current solution, redirecting its focus to the long-term goal of building the "best chat app on earth" by 2024. The iMessage connection software powering Beeper Mini and Beeper Cloud has been made entirely open source, available for use or continued development on GitHub.

Responding to criticisms, Beeper addressed concerns about enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks. In a tongue-in-cheek manner, the company pointed out that iMessage, like SMS, provides Apple with the ability to block spammers and scammers at the network layer. Beeper seemed baffled by the argument, emphasizing Apple's capability to block iMessage spam more effectively than SMS spam.

Moreover, Beeper implied skepticism regarding Apple's potential release of RCS support. Even if RCS support does materialize, Beeper expressed a desire to offer its solution immediately rather than waiting for a future iOS update. The company even went a step further, indicating a willingness to reimburse Apple for the "minuscule" infrastructure costs associated with enabling paying iPhone customers to text Android users.

 COVER IMAGE: BEEPER