When a friend mocks others for not using iMessage, the moment can feel awkward. You want to stay cool, keep the chat friendly, and maybe guide the conversation toward a kinder tone. Below are practical ways to answer without turning the chat into a fight.

Step 1 – Pause before you type
A quick pause lets you think about tone. Reacting instantly can make words sound sharper than intended.

I hear you’re annoyed when messages don’t show read receipts.

Sounds like the lack of iMessage features bothers you a lot.

Give yourself a few seconds, then decide what you want to achieve: calm the mood, share a different view, or set a boundary.

Step 2 – Show you get the feeling
People often want to be heard. A little empathy can lower defenses.

I get why you feel irritated if a chat feels one‑sided.

It makes sense to be frustrated when you can’t see if someone is typing.

Notice the wording avoids blaming the friend and focuses on the feeling.

Step 3 – Offer another angle
After you acknowledge the feeling, add a gentle perspective.

Some folks choose other apps because they work on Android phones.

Many friends stick with plain SMS to avoid data charges.

Different phones mean different defaults, and that’s okay.

These lines keep the tone neutral and remind the group that choices vary.

Step 4 – Keep the chat light
Humor works if it’s not sarcastic. A light comment can steer the talk away from criticism.

Maybe we should start a club for people who love emojis more than read receipts.

I’m happy to send a meme even if it lands as a regular text.

A small joke can dissolve tension without sounding dismissive.

Step 5 – Set a gentle boundary if needed
If the teasing continues, let your friend know the line.

I prefer not to call people names over the app they use.

Let’s keep the chat friendly for everyone, regardless of phone type.

I enjoy our talks when we focus on the topic, not the platform.

Stating your preference clearly helps the group know what’s acceptable.

Step 6 – Change the subject
When the topic stalls, steer the conversation toward something neutral.

Did you see the new podcast episode on travel tips?

What movie are you planning to watch this weekend?

Any thoughts on the game that dropped last night?

Shifting focus shows you value the friendship more than the debate.

Step 7 – Follow up later
If the chat ended on a sour note, a private message can repair things.

Hey, I hope my comment didn’t come off harsh earlier.

Just wanted to say I value our friendship, even if we disagree on apps.

Let’s catch up soon over coffee.

A brief check‑in can reinforce that the bond matters more than the tech talk.

Quick tip list

• Pause before you hit send.
• Mirror the feeling, not the words.
• Add a fact that broadens the view.
• Use a light joke if the vibe feels tense.
• State your boundary in calm language.
• Switch to a neutral topic when needed.
• Send a follow‑up if the chat feels off.

By using these steps, you stay respectful, keep the conversation flowing, and protect the friendship from unnecessary friction.

Remember, the goal isn’t to win an argument about iMessage. It’s to keep the chat friendly, show you respect each other’s choices, and enjoy the time you spend texting. A simple, thoughtful reply can turn a potential clash into a moment of understanding.

Be kind ❤