Apple provides online tool to remove phone number from iMessage
Apple this weekend launched a new web-based utility that allows users to deregister their phone number from iMessage. This online tool is meant to address complaints from consumers who had problems receiving SMS messages after switching away from an iPhone.
Apple reportedly was aware of the problem, which surfaced following the introduction of iMessage in 2011, and was unable to provide a fix. A frustrated Android owner eventually filed a class action lawsuit over the issue.
The new web tool allows users to remove their phone number from Apple's iMessage service, allowing them to receive text messages when they switch away from the iOS platform. The tool is easy to use, requiring users to enter their existing phone number into the web page, which will send off a text message with a confirmation code. Once the user enters this code into the form, the phone number will be removed from Apple's messaging service.
