Sunbird’s return may bring iMessage to Android users in the near future

Sunbird, previously known for its security vulnerabilities in its efforts to introduce iMessage to Android, is staging a comeback. Despite its history of issues, Sunbird has revealed its intention to reintroduce its iMessage for Android services on April 5.

In 2022, Sunbird entered the scene with the ambitious goal of expanding iMessage to Android users. However, the app faced significant security issues, which led to its sudden shutdown shortly after its launch. These issues included access to users’ shared media and real-time visibility of messages, causing Sunbird to shut down indefinitely.

Sunbird restart notification

Now, with its technical implementations and organizational processes re-evaluated, Sunbird is re-emerging. Invitations to the revamped service will be released gradually to those on the waiting list, reports 9to5google.

In its press release, Sunbird highlights its platform’s ability to bridge the gap between the Android and Apple ecosystems, facilitating secure communication within Apple’s environment. Although the release does not address the details of the changes made, Sunbird guarantees users a robust, secure and unified messaging experience.

Additional information on Sunbird’s website sheds light on the app’s updated security measures. The company has replaced its old architecture with a new “AV2” architecture that includes a secure communications standard known as MQTTS. Additionally, Sunbird emphasizes that unencrypted messages are never stored on disk or in the database, and static files are encrypted both in transit and at rest.

To bolster its security efforts, Sunbird has tapped the expertise of independent security consultant CIPHER and appointed former Google engineering director Jared Jordan as an official advisor. These organizational changes are a sign of Sunbird’s commitment to addressing past deficiencies and prioritizing user security.

As Sunbird prepares for relaunch, it faces skepticism about its ability to provide a secure communication platform. Despite assurances of improved security and revamped infrastructure, users may approach the app with caution given its troubled history. Only time will tell if Sunbird can regain user trust and establish itself as a reliable option for Android users looking for iMessage compatibility.