- Beeper faces renewed issues as Apple reportedly blocks iMessages for around 5% of Beeper Mini users.
- Beeper suggests users uninstall and reinstall the app as a temporary solution for the iMessage block.
- U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren criticizes Apple, emphasizing the need for fair competition and cross-platform communication.
A few days ago, Beeper Mini, a mobile app, resumed operations after Apple attempted to shut down its service that allows Android users to receive iMessage's blue bubble texts. Now, Beeper claims that Apple is targeting its users again by intentionally blocking iMessages from reaching around 5% of Beeper Mini users.
However, Beeper has a solution for this problem: users can uninstall and reinstall the app. Beeper is also working on a broader fix for this issue, but it has yet to be ready. Beeper Cloud users were also affected, and they can contact Beeper Help for assistance.
Beeper vs. Apple: Messaging clash
The startup has been in a fierce battle with Apple since it launched its iMessage-on-Android solution last week. By using new technology to reverse-engineer the iMessage protocol, Beeper created an app that enabled Android users to chat with iPhone users like they were on iMessage.
Apple’s decision to close down Beeper’s new app drew the attention of lawmakers. U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the tech giant for shutting down the app and argued that Big Tech executives prioritize profits over fair competition. She emphasized the importance of accessible and secure communication across different platforms.
Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble smartwatch, established the startup. Initially, they were developing a messaging app aggregator for multiple services. However, they later introduced Beeper Mini, which aimed to bring iMessage to Android users. This service was priced at $1.99 per month.
Edited by Shruti Thapa
