After being blocked by Apple, Beeper, the app that brings iMessage to Android users, has implemented a fix to allow users to once again access the service. However, this fix comes with some limitations.
The Fix: A Mac-Based Solution
According to a Reddit post from the company, the fix requires users to have access to a Mac computer or know someone on Beeper who has a Mac. The company explained that when users connect iMessage on Beeper, it needs to send identification information called ‘registration data’ from a real Mac.
Why Apple Blocked Beeper
Until now, Beeper had been using its own fleet of Mac servers to provide this registration data. However, the company notes that this has proven to be an easy target for Apple because thousands of Beeper users were using the same registration data. This made it simple for Apple to block the service.
The New Update
With the new update, scheduled to launch tomorrow, Beeper will start generating unique registration data for its users. The company claims that this 1:1 mapping of registration data to individual user makes the connection very reliable. In fact, in their testing, they found that 10 to 20 iMessage users can safely use the same registration data.
Using a Friend’s Mac Registration Data
If you don’t have access to a Mac computer yourself, Beeper suggests asking a friend on the platform if you can use their registration data. The company notes that in its testing, it found that this method is also reliable.
What You Need to Know About the Fix
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Unique Registration Data: With the new update, Beeper will generate unique registration data for each user.
- Mac-Based Solution: The fix requires access to a Mac computer or a friend on Beeper with a Mac.
- Reliability: The company claims that this method makes the connection very reliable.
The Limitations of the Fix
While the new update will theoretically keep Beeper alive, it somewhat limits the appeal of the service. Originally, users were able to access iMessage without an Apple device. Some users have already taken to Reddit to share their frustration.
What’s Next?
Given Apple’s recent actions to block Beeper, it’s unknown how long this fix will remain operational once launched.
U.S. Lawmakers Investigate Apple’s Anticompetitive Treatment
Just yesterday, a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers asked the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate Apple’s potential anticompetitive treatment of Beeper. They noted that interoperability and interconnections have long been key drivers of competition and consumer choice in communications services.
Conclusion
The fix implemented by Beeper will allow users to once again access the iMessage service. However, this solution comes with some limitations. It remains to be seen how long this fix will remain operational once launched.
Apple’s Block on Beeper: A Timeline
- Apple blocks Beeper from accessing iMessage
- Bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers ask DOJ to investigate Apple’s potential anticompetitive treatment
- Beeper implements new update that requires unique registration data for each user
What’s at Stake?
The fate of Beeper and its users hangs in the balance. Will the fix implemented by the company be enough to keep the service alive, or will Apple find a way to block it again?
How to Stay Updated on This Story
Stay tuned for further updates on this story as more information becomes available.
