The key difference is that anyone can install WhatsApp or Telegram. An Android user cannot use Apple messaging. It's the only scenario where the only solution is buying a $1000 device (versus downloading a free app to your existing device).

You can buy a new iPhone SE for $400 bucks.

>the only solution is buying a $1000 device

I did a quick spot check on eBay for "iphone se 2020 unlocked", and you can get one from $130 shipped.

You realize that the cost of completely switching your phone and ecosystem is not limited to the monetary price of the hardware. Right?

Especially versus the cost (monetary or otherwise) of installing another chat app?

I don't see how this is relevant. My parent comment said "the only solution is spending $1000" (aka buying an iPhone 15 pro), and I wanted to point out that this is ridiculous.

But even if it were relevant, what massive costs do you incur when you switch from your Google phone to an iPhone? Two hours set-up, if you are really slow? Anything else?

Also, if that is too much for you, you can keep your Google phone, I honestly couldn't care less what phone you use. I just wanted to point out that "you have to buy an iPhone 15 pro to get blue bubbles" is bullshit.

As to your point about non-monetary costs, I'd gladly spent $130 to avoid installing any meta app on my phone.

I'm assuming a person would want their new phone to be the current model, likely financed by their cell provider, as is our custom. Not some referubed last-gen from an eBay seller.

"as is our custom" had me on the floor laughing