How to Properly Disable iMessage When Switching from iPhone

If you’re moving from an iPhone to an Android phone or a device that doesn’t use iMessage, one crucial step is to deregister your phone number. If you skip this, messages from other iPhone users may continue to be sent as blue iMessages instead of green SMS texts, causing you to miss them. Here’s how to ensure a smooth transition.

1. Turn Off iMessage on Your iPhone (Before You Switch)
This is the most straightforward method if you still have your iPhone.

Go to Settings > Messages.
Toggle off iMessage.

2. Deregister Online via Apple’s Website (If You No Longer Have Your iPhone)
If you’ve already switched phones without turning iMessage off, use Apple’s official online tool.

Visit deregister.imessage.com on any web browser.
Enter your phone number and confirm with the verification code sent via SMS to your new phone.

3. Sign Out of iMessage on All Other Apple Devices
iMessage can also be active on your iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch. You need to disable it on these devices as well.

On Mac: Open the Messages app, go to Messages > Settings > iMessage, and click Sign Out.
On iPad: Use the same steps as on the iPhone via Settings > Messages.