iMessage for Windows based CUSTOMERS?

Question

Level 1

16 points

iMessage for Windows based CUSTOMERS?

Since all customers are valuable, equally valuable, why do customers with MAC computers have the ability to use iMessage and customers with Windows computers have been excluded from using iMessage for Windows? Are Windows customers somehow disadvantaged by utilizing Apple based products, seems odd especially since iCloud for Windows exists, iTunes existed for Windows, Apple Music for Windows Exists, Apple Devices for Windows exists, why is it Windows users are prevented or excluded for iMessage a significant gap for Windows customers, we should be treated equally, should we not?

iPhone 15 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Jul 28, 2025 03:04 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Mac Jim ID

Level 9

53,378 points

Jul 28, 2025 04:12 PM in response to GeorgeIT

It is simply one of many services that are only available on Apple devices. It is also not possible to use the iPhone Mirroring app on Windows or even Siri on Windows. Where it makes sense for Apple's benefit, they have included some cross platform services. Since it is listed that you have an iPhone 15, you can use the PhoneLink app on Windows to send iMessages using your phone linked to your Windows device.

There are many other differences in the platforms where apps are not compatible. Another example is the Find My services, where the Windows service is not able to see Apple devices and Apple Find My is not able to locate Windows devices. There is much more compatibility today than there ever was previously, but certainly not all services/apps will be available on both platforms.

Reply

Answer 2

GeorgeIT Author

Level 1

16 points

Jul 28, 2025 04:19 PM in response to Mac Jim ID

Hi Jim,

"Where it makes sense for Apples benefit", well that is the point, shouldnt it be for their customers benefit?

In regards to capabilities, it is not a technical limitation as you elude to, it can be done there is no technical barrier.

And again, as a windows customer and an apple customer who by the way made apple today what it is, specifically the support of Ipods on Windows which changed the financial fortunes of the company, providing native iMessage is not insignificant.

Reply

Answer 3

Mac Jim ID

Level 9

53,378 points

Jul 28, 2025 04:37 PM in response to GeorgeIT

Adding iTunes/iPod support for Windows was a monetary benefit, where there is none for iMessage. As an Apple customer with an iPhone, you are capable of using iMessage on your device and the PhoneLink app on your Windows machine.

The exact same is true for the Samsung Messaging where you have no capability of using that service unless you have a Samsung phone and use the PhoneLink app in the same way.

You can find more information here from Microsoft on sending Messages with ether Android or iOS.

Microsoft Windows Messaging

Reply