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How to remove Apple iMessage

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The iMessage feature can be super helpful to text other Apple users, but unlike WhatsApp, you can't use iMessage to communicate with Android and Windows users. If you regularly talk to non-Apple users or if you've just switched to a non-iOS device, you might want to disable iMessage to ensure your texts are reaching the right recipient.

Fortunately, Apple has made it easy to turn off iMessage. Just follow the steps below.

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Difficulty

Easy

Duration

5 minutes

What You Need

  • iOS device

How to disable iMessage on iPhone

Disabling the iMessage feature on your iPhone is simple.

Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone.

Step 2: Select the Messages option.

Step 3: Turn off iMessage by using the toggle button.

iPhone iMessage toggle button.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How to disable iMessage on iPad

To disable iMessage on your iPad, follow the same steps.

Step 1: Open Settings.

Step 2: Select the Messages option.

Step 3: Turn off iMessage by using the toggle button.

How to disable iMessage on Mac

Disabling iMessage on Mac is also fairly straightforward. Follow the steps below.

Step 1: Open the Messages app on your Mac device.

how to remove apple imessage sgarh
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Step 2: Select Preferences from the Messages tab.

Preferences option on Mac.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Step 3: Go to the iMessage window.

Step 4: Untick the box beside the Enable this account option.

iMessage window on Mac.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Step 5: Use the Sign out button to ensure you're logged out.

Disable iMessage online

If you don't have access to your iOS device, don't worry. You can still disable iMessage online. Here's how.

Step 1: Visit the Apple deregistration website.

Step 2: Type in your phone number associated with the iMessage account.

Step 3: Enter the confirmation code received on your new device.

Step 4: The website will deregister iMessage on your old iOS device.

Now that you've disabled iMessage, you might want to take a look at the best messaging apps for Android and iOS. Want more security? Check out the best encrypted apps for iOS And Android.

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Sakshi Udavant
Sakshi Udavant
Mobile Writer
Sakshi Udavant is a freelance journalist and marketing writer covering technology, business, wellbeing and lifestyle. She…
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