When a buddy teases people for not using iMessage, the vibe can turn awkward fast. Knowing how to reply keeps the chat friendly and stops the conversation from spiraling into drama. Below are practical steps you can take, plus ready‑made lines you can drop in the moment.

1. Pause before you speak

Take a breath. A quick pause helps you decide whether you want to joke, correct, or set a boundary. Reacting instantly often leads to a snappy comeback that hurts more than helps.

I get why you love iMessage, but not everyone has an Apple phone.

Different apps work better for some people, so let’s not judge.

Your point is clear, still many folks prefer other platforms.

2. Choose the tone that fits your relationship

• Playful – Light teasing shows you’re not taking things too seriously.
• Neutral – A factual statement keeps the focus on the issue, not feelings.
• Firm – When the ridicule feels hurtful, a clear boundary signals that the behavior isn’t okay.

Playful examples

Haha, I guess my Android is just trying to be mysterious.

Guess I’ll stick with carrier pigeons for now.

Your iMessage superiority complex is adorable.

Neutral examples

iMessage works great for Apple users, yet other apps give similar features.

Some people need cross‑platform chat, so they pick WhatsApp or Signal.

The main thing is staying in touch, regardless of the app.

Firm examples

I don’t appreciate jokes about my phone choice, please stop.

Ridiculing others isn’t funny, let’s keep the chat respectful.

I prefer conversations without shaming, thanks.

3. Offer an alternative viewpoint

Sharing a short fact can shift the focus. People often forget that iMessage isn’t the only tool for quick, reliable messaging.

Did you know Android users can send high‑resolution photos without extra cost?

Group chats on other apps support more participants than iMessage.

End‑to‑end encryption is standard on many platforms, not just iMessage.

4. Use “I” statements to own your feelings

When you speak from personal experience, the other person is less likely to feel attacked.

I feel uncomfortable when my phone choice becomes a joke.

I enjoy chatting on any app that works for everyone.

I prefer keeping the conversation light, no need for mockery.

5. Suggest a group‑wide solution

If the group uses multiple devices, propose a common app that works for all.

How about we switch to a platform that runs on both iOS and Android?

Maybe we could create a shared chat on Telegram, it works everywhere.

Let’s pick an app that doesn’t leave anyone out, that sounds fair.

6. Keep the conversation moving forward

After addressing the teasing, steer the chat toward a new topic. This prevents the moment from lingering.

Speaking of phones, have you tried the new camera mode on the latest iPhone?

By the way, are we still meeting for coffee tomorrow?

Anyway, did anyone see the latest episode of that show we love?

7. Know when to walk away

If the friend continues to ridicule despite your responses, it’s okay to exit the chat or mute notifications. Your peace of mind matters more than any single conversation.

I’m stepping out of this chat for a bit, talk later.

I’ll catch up later, need a break from the discussion.

Leaving the group now, hope we can talk again with less tension.

Quick‑reply cheat sheet

• Playful:

  • Your iMessage brag is cute.

  • Guess my phone wants to stay mysterious.

• Neutral:

  • Different apps suit different needs.

  • The goal is staying connected.

• Firm:

  • Please stop teasing about phone choices.

  • Ridicule isn’t welcome here.

• Suggestive:

  • Let’s pick a cross‑platform app.

  • How about a group chat on Signal?

• Redirect:

  • Did you hear about the new game release?

  • Speaking of tech, the latest laptop looks cool.

Tips for staying calm

• Take a sip of water before replying.
• Write your response in a notes app, then copy it.
• Remind yourself that a friend’s joke isn’t a personal attack.

When to set a firm boundary

• The teasing repeats more than twice.
• You notice the comment makes others uncomfortable.
• The conversation turns into a heated argument.

Setting a clear line early helps keep the group vibe friendly.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right reply depends on how close you feel to the friend and what you want the chat to achieve. Whether you crack a joke, give a fact, or draw a line, having a few ready‑made lines makes it easier to stay cool and keep the conversation on track. Remember, the goal is to enjoy texting together without anyone feeling left out.

Be kind ❤