Apple has been in hot water over an iMessage issue, stopping text messages from arriving on the user's new device if it is not an iPhone.

Today, users will be able to make the process of moving from the iPhone to an Android or Windows Phone easier with an online service to deregister the account from active use.

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The new update comes after Apple fought in a class action lawsuit over a new Android owner not being able to receive messages on her new phone following an auto-lock by iMessage.

Apple worked on fixing the issue, but it appears to still have problems. Users previously had to call Apple Care service to get it fixed, now users can deregister online without having to go through security steps on the phone.

It would be ideal if Apple found a way to automatically deregister the account once a new mobile had been verified on the same number, but the company has a reputation for moving slowly when it comes to any issues regarding other mobile platforms so customers may have to wait a while.

iMessage is Apple's messaging service for iPhone users, allowing them to receive messages for free over WiFi and cellular. Its popularity has sprung out of the convenience of the service, working inside the SMS messages app and group chats.

Apple's main competition comes from Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, LINE and WeChat. In China, iMessage has reportedly not been as popular as in the U.S., with messaging app WeChat winning over users as does LINE in Japan.

In Europe and the U.S. WhatsApp has gained a large following, but new video and photo messaging services like Snapchat, Yo and Rumr are becoming more popular as users look for better ways to remain anonymous on the Internet.

TagsiMessage, iPhone, messaging apps