https://en.wikipedia.org/w/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=Brandon.macuserWikipedia - User contributions [en]2026-10-11T00:24:06ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.47.0-wmf.23https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Blue_Lake_(New_York)&diff=1361982191Blue Lake (New York)2026-07-01T06:17:29Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Added links</p>
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<div>{{about-distinguish|Sterling Forest Lake|Sterling Lake}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2026}}<br />
{{Use American English|date=February 2026}}<br />
{{Infobox Lake<br />
| name = Blue Lake<br />
| location = [[Orange County, New York]]<br />
| coordinates = {{coord|41.163288|N|74.259774|W|region:US_type:waterbody|display=inline, title}}<br />
| other_name = Sterling Forest Lake<br />
| type = Reservoir<br />
| elevation = {{convert|650|foot|m|abbr=on}}<br />
| area = {{convert|115|acre|km2|abbr=on}}<br />
| shore = {{convert|2.3|mile|km|abbr=on}}<br />
| max-depth = {{convert|26|foot|m|abbr=on}}<br />
| basin_countries = United States<br />
| image_bathymetry = <br />
| outflow = Ringwood River<br />
| date-flooded = 1956<br />
| part_of = Ramapo River Watershed<br />
<!-- Map -->| pushpin_map = USA New York inset#USA<br />
| pushpin_label_position = <br />
| pushpin_map_alt = Location of Blue Lake in New York, USA.<br />
| pushpin_map_caption = <!-- Below --><br />
| reference = <ref name=:1>{{cite web |url=https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/75516.html |title=Blue Lake - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation |website=www.dec.ny.gov |accessdate=2020-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|date=1979|title=Environmental Impact Statement on Wastewater Treatment Facilities Construction Grants for the Ramapo River Basin, New York|journal=U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region II|page=22}}</ref><br />
}}<br />
'''Blue Lake''', also called '''Sterling Forest Lake''', is located in [[Sterling Forest State Park]], [[New York (state)|New York]].<ref name=":1" /> As of 2018, the Blue Lake Reservoir System, operated by SUEZ North America (formerly United Water), supplies drinking water from Blue Lake to about 1,200 people.<ref>https://www.mysuezwater.com/sites/default/files/BLwaterquality2018.pdf {{dead link |date=July 2024|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Overview ==<br />
The [[lake]] is the largest of many smaller lakes in the state park. The lake contains a number of fish species including Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Largemouth Bass, Chain Pickerel and Panfish.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Blue Lake - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation |url=https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/75516.html |access-date=2023-05-13 |website=www.dec.ny.gov}}</ref> Fishing is permitted and the lake has the only boat launch within the state park, but no gas motors are allowed.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Blue Lake was created in 1956 when the stream originating at Little Cedar Pond to the northwest was dammed, inundating the area. In 1960, the [[International Nickel Company|International Nickel Company (INCO)]] purchased property overlooking the lake where they built a facility. That facility, which ceased operation in the late 1980s, included a headquarters office and a research center called the [[Paul Dyer Merica|Paul D. Merica]] Laboratory.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1964/08/17/archives/natures-serenity-contributes-to-success-of-science-sterling-forest.html|title=Nature's Serenity Contributes to Success of Science; STERLING FOREST: A SCIENCE HAVEN; Laboratories Moving From Cities to Quiet Woods|date=1964-08-17|work=The New York Times|access-date=2020-04-26|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|date=1966-10-01|journal=Analytical Chemistry|volume=38|issue=11|pages=103A–105A|doi=10.1021/ac60243a705|issn=0003-2700|title=Laboratory of the Month}}</ref> After remaining vacant for decades, the old INCO facility was replaced in 2016<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/news/releases/by-region/united-states/gbi-awards-four-green-globes-sustainable-design/|title=GBI Awards 7 Four Green Globes for Sustainable Design of WHQ|website=JW.ORG|language=en|access-date=2020-04-26}}</ref> by the newly constructed world headquarters of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/news/releases/by-region/united-states/jehovahs-witnesses-warwick-ny-construction/|title=Jehovah's Witnesses Begin Construction in Warwick, New York|website=JW.ORG|language=en|access-date=2020-04-26}}</ref> The only other facility adjacent to Blue Lake was built in the early 1970s and used by [[IBM]]; <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.recordonline.com/article/20070330/BIZ/703300325|title=IBM plans $50M upgrade to replace Sterling Forest plant's aging equipment|last=Levensohn|first=Michael|website=recordonline.com|language=en|access-date=2020-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Hernández|first=Daisy|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/01/04/nyregion/the-ultimate-backup-in-the-backwoods-using-remote-sites-for-emergencies.html|title=The Ultimate Backup In the Backwoods; Using Remote Sites for Emergencies|date=2003-01-04|work=The New York Times|access-date=2020-04-26|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}}</ref> it was also purchased by the Jehovah's Witnesses in 2026.<ref> https://www.jw.org/en/global-communications/country/united-states/Jehovahs-Witnesses-Purchase-Property-Adjacent-to-Their-World-Headquarters/ </ref><br />
<br />
==References==<br />
<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{authority control}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Lakes of New York (state)]]<br />
[[Category:Ramapos]]<br />
[[Category:Warwick, New York]]<br />
[[Category:Fishing communities in the United States]]<br />
[[Category:Reservoirs in New York (state)]]<br />
[[Category:Fishing in New York (state)]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ambohitrimanjaka&diff=1291747330Ambohitrimanjaka2025-05-23T04:33:02Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
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<div>{{Infobox settlement<br />
<!--See the Table at Infobox Settlement for all fields and descriptions of usage--><br />
<!-- Basic info ----------------><br />
|official_name = Ambohitrimanjaka<br />
|other_name =<br />
|native_name = <!-- for cities whose native name is not in English --><br />
|nickname =<br />
|settlement_type = <!--For Town or Village (Leave blank for the default City)--><br />
|motto =<br />
<!-- images and maps -----------><br />
|image_skyline =<br />
|imagesize =<br />
|image_caption =<br />
|image_flag =<br />
|flag_size =<br />
|image_seal =<br />
|seal_size =<br />
|image_shield =<br />
|shield_size =<br />
|image_blank_emblem =<br />
|blank_emblem_type =<br />
|blank_emblem_size =<br />
|image_map =<br />
|mapsize =<br />
|map_caption =<br />
|image_map1 =<br />
|mapsize1 =<br />
|map_caption1 =<br />
|pushpin_map = Madagascar<!-- the name of a location map as per http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Location_map --><br />
|pushpin_label_position =bottom<br />
|pushpin_map_caption =Location in Madagascar<br />
|pushpin_mapsize =180<br />
<!-- Location ------------------><br />
|subdivision_type = Country<br />
|subdivision_name = {{MAD}}<br />
|subdivision_type1 = [[Regions of Madagascar|Region]]<br />
|subdivision_name1 = [[Analamanga Region|Analamanga]]<br />
|subdivision_type2 = [[Districts of Madagascar|District]]<br />
|subdivision_name2 = [[Ambohidratrimo District|Ambohidratrimo (district)]]<br />
<!-- Politics -----------------><br />
|government_footnotes =<br />
|government_type =<br />
|leader_title = Mayor<br />
|leader_name = Ihajasoa Randrimanalintsoa <br />
|leader_title1 = <!-- for places with, say, both a mayor and a city manager --><br />
|leader_name1 =<br />
|leader_title2 =<br />
|leader_name2 =<br />
|leader_title3 =<br />
|leader_name3 =<br />
|leader_title4 =<br />
|leader_name4 =<br />
|established_title = <!-- Settled --><br />
|established_date =<br />
|established_title2 = <!-- Incorporated (town) --><br />
|established_date2 =<br />
|established_title3 = <!-- Incorporated (city) --><br />
|established_date3 =<br />
<!-- Area ---------------------><br />
|area_magnitude =<br />
|unit_pref = <!--Enter: Imperial, if Imperial (metric) is desired--><br />
|area_footnotes =<br />
|area_total_km2 = 21,765 <!-- ALL fields dealing with a measurements are subject to automatic unit conversion--><br />
|area_land_km2 = <!--See table @ Template:Infobox Settlement for details on automatic unit conversion--><br />
|area_water_km2 =<br />
|area_total_sq_mi =<br />
|area_land_sq_mi =<br />
|area_water_sq_mi =<br />
|area_water_percent =<br />
|area_urban_km2 =<br />
|area_urban_sq_mi =<br />
|area_metro_km2 =<br />
|area_metro_sq_mi =<br />
|area_blank1_title =<br />
|area_blank1_km2 =<br />
|area_blank1_sq_mi =<br />
<!-- Population -----------------------><br />
|population_as_of = 2018<br />
|population_footnotes = <br />
|population_total = 41,604<br />
|population_note =<br />
|population_density_km2 =<br />
|population_density_sq_mi =<br />
|population_metro =<br />
|population_density_metro_km2 =<br />
|population_density_metro_sq_mi =<br />
|population_urban =<br />
|population_density_urban_km2 =<br />
|population_density_urban_sq_mi =<br />
|population_blank1_title =Ethnicities<br />
|population_blank1 =<br />
|population_blank2_title =Religions<br />
|population_blank2 =<br />
|population_density_blank1_km2 =<br />
|population_density_blank1_sq_mi=<br />
<!-- General information ---------------><br />
|timezone = [[East Africa Time|EAT]]<br />
|utc_offset = 3<br />
|timezone_DST = <br />
|utc_offset_DST = <br />
|coordinates = {{coord|18|52|S|47|26|E|region:MG|display=inline}}<br />
|elevation_footnotes=<br />
|elevation_m = 1249<br />
|elevation_ft =<br />
<!-- Area/postal codes & others --------><br />
|postal_code_type = Postal code<br />
|postal_code = 105<br />
|area_code =<br />
|blank_name =<br />
|blank_info =<br />
|blank1_name =<br />
|blank1_info =<br />
|website =<br />
|footnotes =<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Ambohitrimanjaka''' is a municipality in [[Madagascar]]. It belongs to the [[Districts of Madagascar|district]] of [[Ambohidratrimo District|Ambohidratrimo (district)]], which is a part of [[Analamanga Region]].<br />
It lies about 12 km West from the capital [[Antananarivo]]. It is well known for its manufacture of [[brick]]s, its fish, ducks and [[rice]].<br />
<br />
The population of the commune was estimated to be approximately 41,604 in 2018.<ref>[http://biblio.univ-antananarivo.mg/pdfs/randrianarivoFanomezanjanaharyA_ENS_CPN_10.pdf LA BRIQUETERIE ARTISANALE DE LA COMMUNE RURALE AMBOHITRIMANJAKA]</ref><br />
<br />
==Roads==<br />
The [[Route nationale 4 (Madagascar)|National road RN4]] and the [[RIP 29 (Madagascar)|Provincial Road 29]].<br />
==Rivers==<br />
Two rivers cross the commune: [[Sisaony]] in the South and South-West and [[Ikopa River]] in the East.<ref>[http://i-tantsoroka.mg/dossier/communemonographie/MONOGRAPHIE_Ambohitrimanjaka.pdf Monographie de la Commune Ambohitrimanjaka]</ref><br />
<br />
==[[Fady (taboo)|Fady]] (taboos)==<br />
* Prohibition of contacting round objects (balls, etc) during the maturity of the rice.<br />
* Prohibition of culture of onions.<br />
* Prohibition of [[Goat herding]].<br />
The [[Zanadranavalona]] of Anosimanjaka also feast the [[Alahamadibe]] (or: [[Fandroana]] or Asaramanitra) which is the Malagasy New Year after the astrology of the elders.<br />
<br />
==Villages==<br />
25 fokontany (villages) belong to this municipality of which 24 are connected to the electric grid of [[Jirama]].<br />
<br />
== Industry==<br />
In the village of Anosimanjaka which is part of this municipality is situated a poultry [[slaughterhouse]] since 2022.<br />
<br />
== References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Analamanga Region}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Populated places in Analamanga]]<br />
<br />
<br />
{{Analamanga-geo-stub}}</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ambohitrimanjaka&diff=1291746501Ambohitrimanjaka2025-05-23T04:22:27Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox settlement<br />
<!--See the Table at Infobox Settlement for all fields and descriptions of usage--><br />
<!-- Basic info ----------------><br />
|official_name = Ambohitrimanjaka<br />
|other_name =<br />
|native_name = <!-- for cities whose native name is not in English --><br />
|nickname =<br />
|settlement_type = <!--For Town or Village (Leave blank for the default City)--><br />
|motto =<br />
<!-- images and maps -----------><br />
|image_skyline =<br />
|imagesize =<br />
|image_caption =<br />
|image_flag =<br />
|flag_size =<br />
|image_seal =<br />
|seal_size =<br />
|image_shield =<br />
|shield_size =<br />
|image_blank_emblem =<br />
|blank_emblem_type =<br />
|blank_emblem_size =<br />
|image_map =<br />
|mapsize =<br />
|map_caption =<br />
|image_map1 =<br />
|mapsize1 =<br />
|map_caption1 =<br />
|pushpin_map = Madagascar<!-- the name of a location map as per http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Location_map --><br />
|pushpin_label_position =bottom<br />
|pushpin_map_caption =Location in Madagascar<br />
|pushpin_mapsize =180<br />
<!-- Location ------------------><br />
|subdivision_type = Country<br />
|subdivision_name = {{MAD}}<br />
|subdivision_type1 = [[Regions of Madagascar|Region]]<br />
|subdivision_name1 = [[Analamanga Region|Analamanga]]<br />
|subdivision_type2 = [[Districts of Madagascar|District]]<br />
|subdivision_name2 = [[Ambohidratrimo District|Ambohidratrimo (district)]]<br />
<!-- Politics -----------------><br />
|government_footnotes =<br />
|government_type =<br />
|leader_title = Mayor<br />
|leader_name = Ihajasoa Randrimanalintsoa <br />
|leader_title1 = <!-- for places with, say, both a mayor and a city manager --><br />
|leader_name1 =<br />
|leader_title2 =<br />
|leader_name2 =<br />
|leader_title3 =<br />
|leader_name3 =<br />
|leader_title4 =<br />
|leader_name4 =<br />
|established_title = <!-- Settled --><br />
|established_date =<br />
|established_title2 = <!-- Incorporated (town) --><br />
|established_date2 =<br />
|established_title3 = <!-- Incorporated (city) --><br />
|established_date3 =<br />
<!-- Area ---------------------><br />
|area_magnitude =<br />
|unit_pref = <!--Enter: Imperial, if Imperial (metric) is desired--><br />
|area_footnotes =<br />
|area_total_km2 = 21,765 <!-- ALL fields dealing with a measurements are subject to automatic unit conversion--><br />
|area_land_km2 = <!--See table @ Template:Infobox Settlement for details on automatic unit conversion--><br />
|area_water_km2 =<br />
|area_total_sq_mi =<br />
|area_land_sq_mi =<br />
|area_water_sq_mi =<br />
|area_water_percent =<br />
|area_urban_km2 =<br />
|area_urban_sq_mi =<br />
|area_metro_km2 =<br />
|area_metro_sq_mi =<br />
|area_blank1_title =<br />
|area_blank1_km2 =<br />
|area_blank1_sq_mi =<br />
<!-- Population -----------------------><br />
|population_as_of = 2018<br />
|population_footnotes = <br />
|population_total = 41,604<br />
|population_note =<br />
|population_density_km2 =<br />
|population_density_sq_mi =<br />
|population_metro =<br />
|population_density_metro_km2 =<br />
|population_density_metro_sq_mi =<br />
|population_urban =<br />
|population_density_urban_km2 =<br />
|population_density_urban_sq_mi =<br />
|population_blank1_title =Ethnicities<br />
|population_blank1 =<br />
|population_blank2_title =Religions<br />
|population_blank2 =<br />
|population_density_blank1_km2 =<br />
|population_density_blank1_sq_mi=<br />
<!-- General information ---------------><br />
|timezone = [[East Africa Time|EAT]]<br />
|utc_offset = 3<br />
|timezone_DST = <br />
|utc_offset_DST = <br />
|coordinates = {{coord|18|52|S|47|26|E|region:MG|display=inline}}<br />
|elevation_footnotes=<br />
|elevation_m = 1249<br />
|elevation_ft =<br />
<!-- Area/postal codes & others --------><br />
|postal_code_type = Postal code<br />
|postal_code = 105<br />
|area_code =<br />
|blank_name =<br />
|blank_info =<br />
|blank1_name =<br />
|blank1_info =<br />
|website =<br />
|footnotes =<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Ambohitrimanjaka''' is a municipality in [[Madagascar]]. It belongs to the [[Districts of Madagascar|district]] of [[Ambohidratrimo District|Ambohidratrimo (district)]], which is a part of [[Analamanga Region]].<br />
It lies about 12 km West from the capital [[Antananarivo]]. It is well known for its manufacture of [[brick]]s, its fish, ducks and [[rice]].<br />
<br />
The population of the commune was estimated to be approximately 41,604 in 2018.<ref>[http://biblio.univ-antananarivo.mg/pdfs/randrianarivoFanomezanjanaharyA_ENS_CPN_10.pdf LA BRIQUETERIE ARTISANALE DE LA COMMUNE RURALE AMBOHITRIMANJAKA]</ref><br />
<br />
==Roads==<br />
The [[Route nationale 4 (Madagascar)|National road RN4]] and the [[RIP 29 (Madagascar)|Provincial Road 29]].<br />
==Rivers==<br />
Two rivers cross the commune: [[Sisaony]] in the South and South-West and [[Ikopa River]] in the East.<ref>[http://i-tantsoroka.mg/dossier/communemonographie/MONOGRAPHIE_Ambohitrimanjaka.pdf Monographie de la Commune Ambohitrimanjaka]</ref><br />
<br />
==[[Fady (taboo)|Fady]] (taboos)==<br />
* Prohibition of contacting round objects (balls, etc) during the maturity of the rice.<br />
* Prohibition of culture of oignons.<br />
* Prohibition of [[Goat herding]].<br />
The [[Zanadranavalona]] of Anosimanjaka also feast the [[Alahamadibe]] (or: [[Fandroana]] or Asaramanitra) which is the Malagasy New Year after the astrology of the elders.<br />
<br />
==Villages==<br />
25 fokontany (villages) belong to this municipality of which 24 are connected to the electric grid of [[Jirama]].<br />
<br />
== Industry==<br />
In the village of Anosimanjaka which is part of this municipality is situated a poultry [[slaughterhouse]] since 2022.<br />
<br />
== References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Analamanga Region}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Populated places in Analamanga]]<br />
<br />
<br />
{{Analamanga-geo-stub}}</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Indigenismo_in_Mexico&diff=1289122517Indigenismo in Mexico2025-05-06T16:26:16Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Added short description</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Political ideology in Mexico}}<br />
{{Main|Indigenismo}}<br />
'''Indigenismo''' is a [[Latin American]] [[nationalist]] political ideology that began in the late nineteenth century and persisted throughout the twentieth that attempted to construct the role of Indigenous populations in the nation-state. The ideology was particularly influential in [[Mexico]] where it shaped the majority of Indigenous-state relations since its incorporation into the Constitution in 1917. While the perspectives and methods of Indigenistas changed and adapted over time, the defining features of Mexican Indigenismo are the implementation by primarily non-Indigenous actors, the celebration of Indigenous culture as a part of the nation's history, and the attempt to integrate Indigenous populations under the authority of the nation-state. The ideology was enacted by a number of policies, institutions, governmental programs, and through artistic expression. These included education programs, land reform, political reform, and economic development as well as national displays of Indigenous heritage. Although generally viewed as beneficial for creating a platform to discussing Indigenous issues, Indigenismo has been criticized as still operating under colonial paradigms of racial hierarchy and often helped to solidify some stereotypes of Indigenous peoples even while trying to break down others.<br />
<br />
== Post-Revolution ==<br />
The Mexican Indigenista movement flourished after the [[Mexican Revolution]] of 1910-1920. Prior to the Revolution, under the presidency of [[Liberalism in Mexico|Liberal]] General [[Porfirio Diaz]], from Oaxaca and himself having Indigenous antecedents, his policy makers, known as ''[[Cientificos]]'' ("scientists") were influenced by French [[Positivism]] and [[Social Darwinism]] and thinkers such as [[Herbert Spencer]]. They saw white European ethnicity as superior and sought to build the nation toward a European model.<ref name="Knight 1990 root" /> Porfirian state development policies implemented laws of the [[La Reforma|Liberal Reform]] passed in the 1850s, which included dispossessing rural lands, particularly Indigenous community lands under the [[Lerdo Law]]; collective Indigenous groups being integrated as individuals by coercion, and expanding rural education aimed at creating a reliable workforce.<ref name="Knight 1990 root">{{Cite journal|url = http://quod.lib.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/pageviewer-idx?c=acls;cc=acls;idno=heb01930.0001.001;node=heb01930.0001.001%3A6;view=image;seq=87;size=100;page=root|title = The Idea of race in Latin America, 1870-1940|last1 = Knight|first1 = Alan|date = 1990|journal = Acls Humanities E-book, Acls Humanities E-book, Critical Reflections on Latin America Series}}</ref> In the aftermath of the Revolution the new government incorporated indigenismo as an official ideology into the 1917 Constitution, which claimed to strive for the emancipation of previously exploited Indigenous peoples through integration into the Mexican state.<ref name="Knight 1990 root"/><br />
<br />
Mexican policies of indigenismo were influenced largely by [[Columbia University]]-trained Mexican anthropologist [[Manuel Gamio]]. In his 1915 book ''Forjando Patria'' (''Forging a Nation'') he advocated for the study of Indigenous groups in order to determine which cultural traits to preserve and which to improve in order to create a unified nationalist state<ref name="Knight 1990 root" /><ref name=":1">{{Cite book|title = ''The ambivalent revolution: forging state and nation in Chiapas, 1910-1945''|last1 = Lewis|first1 = Stephen E.|publisher = University of New Mexico Press|year = 2005|isbn = |location = Albuquerque|pages = }}</ref> Gamio stated that Indigenous people have the same intellectual capability and that their perceived cultural inferiority is a product of their history of oppression and current disadvantaged environment. With improved education and living conditions, he believed Indigenous groups would accept acculturation and "embrace contemporary culture"<ref>{{Cite book|title = Forjando patria : pro-nacionalismo / by Manuel Gamio; translated and with an introduction by Fernando Armstrong-Fumero|url = https://archive.org/details/forjandopatriapr00gami_651|url-access = limited|last1 = Gamio|first1 = Manuel|publisher = University Press of Colorado|year = 2010|isbn = 9780870819667|location = Boulder, CO|pages = [https://archive.org/details/forjandopatriapr00gami_651/page/n55 39]–40}}</ref> Gamio was instrumental in directing his young nephew, [[Miguel León-Portilla]], who went on to be a leading authority on Nahua thought and history, to study [[Nahuatl]] with [[Ángel María Garibay K.|Ángel María Garibay]]. Garibay published translations of Aztec texts and created the field of Nahuatl literature.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Meyer |first1=Jean |last2=León-Portilla |first2=Miguel |last3=Zatz |first3=Asa |date=2001 |title=Miguel León-Portilla |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/40426796 |journal=BOMB |issue=78 |pages=66–71 |jstor=40426796 |issn=0743-3204}}</ref><br />
<br />
While the first decade of revolutionary presidencies of [[Venustiano Carranza]] (1917–1920), [[Adolfo de la Huerta]] (1920), [[Álvaro Obregón]] (1920–1924), and [[Plutarco Elías Calles]] (1924–1928) saw the start of change in terms of improving education and land reform these administrations still saw Indigenous populations as an obstacle to progress and their policies were geared toward modernizing and improving Indigenous populations to fit into civilized national culture.<ref name=":1" /><ref name="Marak 2009">{{Cite book|title = From many, one : Indians, peasants, borders, and education in Callista Mexico, 1924-1935|last1 = Marak|first1 = Andrae M.|publisher = University of Calgary Press|year = 2009|isbn = |location = Calgary, Alta, Canada|pages = }}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite book|title = The Mexican Revolution, 1910-1940|url = https://archive.org/details/mexicanrevolutio00gonz|url-access = registration|last1 = Gonzales|first1 = Michael J.|publisher = University of New Mexico Press|year = 2002|isbn = |location = Albuquerque|pages = }}</ref> All of the presidents in the immediate aftermath of the Revolution were from northern Mexico; Carranza, [[Nuevo León]]; De la Huerta, Obregón, and Calles, Sonora), a region very different from central and southern Mexico ([[Mesoamerica]]), where great civilizations had arisen before the arrival of the Europeans. The revolutionary general most associated with Mexico's Indigenous population in central Mexico was peasant leader [[Emiliano Zapata]] from [[Morelos]], who was murdered by an agent of Carranza in 1919. Obregón and Calles both distributed land under the tenets of Article 27 of the [[Mexican Constitution of 1917]], allowing the Mexican state to expropriate property. Calles distributed 3,045,802 hectares to over 300,000 people living in rural areas, many of them Indigenous. Much of this land was ill-suited for agriculture or even barren. It is debated whether Calles's land redistribution was done for concern for the well-being of rural citizens or used as a tool to gain political support from rural areas.<ref name=":2" /> When Lázaro Cárdenas of the southern Mexican state of [[Michoacán]] became president in 1934, [[land reform in Mexico]] again became a high priority.<br />
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=== Education reform ===<br />
Reform of rural education became a national priority when President Alvaro Obregon appointed [[José Vasconcelos]] to begin to combat rural illiteracy in 1920. Vasconcelos would eventually be appointed the director of the new Ministry of Public Education (SEP) in 1921.<ref name="Marak 2009"/> Vasconcelos was a nationalist who believed a culturally homogeneous [[mestizo]] state was necessary to create a strong, modernized Mexico. He is known for his phrase describing Mexico's population, the "cosmic race," a blending of Indigenous and Europeans. His Indigenous education policies then were aimed at assimilation and de-Indianizing Indigenous groups so they became a part of mestizo national culture.<ref name=":1" /> Prior to 1920 national education policy had emphasized decentralized local control. By reversing this policy and giving Vasconcelos and SEP centralized control nationwide education, Obregón and Calles used education to extend federal control and aimed at acculturating indigenous populations into national citizens<ref name="Marak 2009"/> In addition to the SEP, Vasconcelos created the Department of Indigenous Culture in 1921 to facilitate the "incorporation [of indigenous peoples] into the dominant European culture"<ref name="Marak 2009" /> through the rural federal schools. Vasconcelos emphasized racially inclusive national schools to break down racial differences, as well as training rural teachers to educate rural children and parents within and outside of the school. His hope was that national mestizo cultural practices would spread through teachers to transform rural communities and create a patriotic national identity through "technological diffusion, agrarian reform,political mobilization, and nationalist propaganda".<ref name="Knight 1990 root" /> Vasconcelos' SEP taught reading and writing to over 37,000 illiterate peasants and the Department of Indigenous Culture created 1,926 rural schools and trained 2,388 teachers from its creation to 1924<ref name="Marak 2009" /><br />
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=== Art and literature ===<br />
{{See also|Mexican Muralism}}Both Gamio and Vasconcelos, along with other indigenistas, saw creating national artistic and cultural production as essential to creating a national identity and used the romantic image of Indigeneity in creating a national culture through state sponsored art production starting in 1920 until 1940. Manuel Gamio argued that Mexican artists' inspiration should be derived from ancient Indigenous aesthetics, from the Aztec in particular.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Brading |first=David A. |date=1988 |title=Manuel Gamio and Official Indigenismo in Mexico |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/3338441 |journal=Bulletin of Latin American Research |volume=7 |issue=1 |pages=75–89 |doi=10.2307/3338441 |jstor=3338441 |issn=0261-3050}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Murales Rivera - Markt in Tlatelolco 3.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Mural by [[Diego Rivera]] showing the pre-Columbian [[Aztec]] city of [[Tenochtitlán]]. Muralists depicted Indigenous Mesoamerican civilizations with idyllic model characteristics as socially, spiritually and morally advanced societies and culturally superior than the Spanish as a way to promote an indigenist nationalism.]]<br />
During the Revolution, Indigenous images were used as official nationalist symbols and after the revolution the government continued to use Indigenous symbols to establish the roots of Mexican culture and identity within the physical nation state<ref name=":4" /> Vasconcelos was appointed to be head of the cultural development program under Obregón, and began to commission artists to create national artwork supported by the revolutionary government, specifically focused on large public works that were visible and accessible to the people in order to solidify the national identity.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":6">{{Cite book|title = Diego Rivera's artistic journey|last1 = Pearson|first1 = Mary|year = 2000|isbn = |location = |pages = }}</ref> Artists who contributed to this movement include [[Diego Rivera]], [[Orozco]], and [[David Alfaro Siqueiros]].<ref name=":7">{{Cite journal|jstor = 10.1086/499209|title = Malinche and Matriarchal Utopia: Gendered Visions of Indigeneity in Mexico|last1 = Taylor|first1 = Analisa|date = March 1, 2006|journal = Signs|doi = 10.1086/499209|pmid = |volume=31|issue = 3|pages=815–840| s2cid=144858655 }}</ref> Much of this expansive artistic production was done in the form of murals on public buildings.<ref name=":4" /> Rivera alone created at least 124 murals over 8 years, including murals on Nacional Palace of Mexico, the Cortes Palace in Cuernavaca and the National School of Agriculture.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Stern |first=Fred |date=2011-03-01 |title=Revolutionary walls: the Mexican muralists |url=https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA256071666&v=2.1&u=tel_a_vanderbilt&it=r&p=AONE&sw=w&asid=1279da63ff7da780fae4a10390450ac8 |journal=World and I |language=English |volume=26 |issue=3}}</ref> These images very often depicted Indigenous figures and symbols as a celebration of pre-colonial Mexico. [[File:Murales_Rivera_-_Ausbeutung_durch_die_Spanier_1_perspective.jpg|thumb|200px|left|Muralists were often influenced by the [[Black legend (Spain)|Black Legend]] and Marxist dialectics of the [[class struggle]], depicting the Indigenous peoples as the oppressed class (an analogy of the worker and the proletariat) while the bourgeois ruling oppressing class would come to be represented by the Spanish, [[Criollos]], rich [[Mestizos]] and the Catholic church.]]<br />
In the view of [[Guillermo Bonfil Batalla]], a Mexican anthropologist, while Indigenous people were often depicted as a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage, they were depicted as relics of the past with little recognition of existing Indigenous groups.<ref name=":4" /> The aspects of Indigeneity that were depicted were selectively chosen as those most appealing such as the calm, [[Peasant|campesino]] life and traditional crafts, dance, and popular folklore.<ref name=":4" /> Rivera's first mural under Vasconcelos' commission, titled <u>''Creation''</u>, is described by Rivera as a racial history of Mexico and demonstrates the cultural hierarchy present in the Indigenismo ideology as the primitive-looking Indigenous figures look up to the enlightened European figures who have come to save them from their misery with education.<ref name=":6" /> Even while these artists helped create the mestizo identity, they often created images that displayed ideas and images of Indigenous peoples that conflicted with the goals of the nationalist government.<ref name=":7" /><br />
[[File:FrancisParishTenancingo22.JPG|thumb|120px|right|Bust of Ángel Garibay K. founder of the field of Nahuatl literature]] <br />
After 1940, muralism was deemphasized to create national identity. Different forms of art and culture production were still used to form and shape national identity such as music, crafts, architecture, and literature, and still incorporated aspects of a romanticized Indigenous heritage. Another way Indigenous heritage was celebrated and publicly displayed was through museums. The largest and best known project is the [[National Museum of Anthropology]] in Mexico City constructed in 1964 to house the extensive national collection of Indigenous cultural artifacts. The museum displays and celebrates Mexico's precolonial past and Indigenous roots.<ref name=":4" /> Critics of Indigenismo have commented on how the museum is structured around primarily [[Aztec]] exhibits and artifacts, while the exhibits dedicated to existing Indigenous groups in Mexico are positioned to the side and are often overlooked by visitors. They have also noted that the language used in the Museum places the greatness and achievements of Indigenous people in the past.<ref>{{Cite book|title = ''México profundo : reclaiming a civilization'' / by Guillermo Bonfil Batalla ; translated by Philip A. Dennis|url = https://archive.org/details/mexicoprofundore0000bonf|url-access = registration|last1 = Bonfil Batalla|first1 = Guillermo|publisher = University of Texas Press|year = 1996|isbn = |location = Austin|pages = [https://archive.org/details/mexicoprofundore0000bonf/page/54 54]–55}}</ref><br />
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The creation of Aztec literature as an academic field was spearheaded by [[Ángel María Garibay Kintana|Ángel María Garibay K.]], a Mexican linguist and translator of [[Nahuatl]] and Spanish texts of the prehispanic and colonial eras, and gave scholarly standing to the native literature of Mexico. Garibay and his student [[Miguel León-Portilla]] published works by Aztec poets written down in the colonial era as alphabetic texts. As the Mexican government supported expressions indigenismo, the establishment of Nahuatl literature with scholarly standing has been seen an integral part of that nationalist state-sponsored project.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Lee |first=Jongsoo |date=2014 |title=Emergence and Progress of Contemporary Nahua Literature: Fray Ángel María Garibay Kintana, Miguel León-Portilla, and the Pre-Hispanic Past |journal=Revista Canadiense de Estudios Hispánicos |volume=39 |issue=1 |pages=29–58 |doi=10.18192/rceh.v39i1.1667 |jstor=24388795 |issn=0384-8167|doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>Lee, Jongsoo. "Mestizaje and the creation of Mexican national literature: Ángel María Garibay Kintana's Nahuatl project." Bulletin of Spanish Studies 91, no. 6 (2014): 889-912.</ref><br />
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== Under Cárdenas (1934-40) ==<br />
[[File:Monumento a La Raza 03 2014 MEX 8349.JPG|thumb|The [[Monumento a la Raza (Mexico City)|Monumento a la Raza]] in Mexico City, built during the Cárdenas presidency, features multiple Indigenous elements.]]<br />
Under the presidency of [[Lázaro Cárdenas]] (1934–1940) policies of indigenismo expanded. After observing the economic and educational struggles experienced by Indigenous communities on his presidential campaign tour and his experience as governor of Michoacan prior to becoming president, Cárdenas stated that it was the government's responsibility to help Indigenous peoples become modern citizens of Mexico at a speech in [[San Cristóbal de Las Casas]], [[Chiapas]] on February 25, 1934.<ref name=":3">{{Cite book|title = Populism in twentieth century Mexico: the presidencies of Lázaro Cárdenas and Luis Echeverría|last1 = Munez|first1 = Maria|publisher = University of Arizona Press|year = 2010|isbn = |location = Tucson|pages = }}</ref> In that speech, he promised to "convert [the Indians] into men capable of intellectual development, and an active economic force struggling for the advancement of their race."<ref>quoted in Alexander S. Dawson, ''Indian and Nation in Revolutionary Mexico''. Tucson: University of Arizona Press 2004, p.67</ref> His administration created policies of planned acculturation to integrate the Indigenous population into the national Mexican state.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title = The struggle for Indigenous rights in Latin America|last1 = Dietz|first1 = Gunther|publisher = Sussex Academic Press|year = 2004|isbn = |location = Brighton [England]; Portland, Or.|pages = }}</ref> These policies included artisan projects, technical training to modernize Indigenous economies<ref name=":3" /> as well as educational programs to culturally and socially integrate Indigenous groups and promote ''[[mestizaje]]''.<ref name=":0" /> Cardenas expressed his support of Indigenous incorporation when he stated the solution to the Indian problem was to "Mexicanize the Indian" and make them citizens at a speech at the 1940 First Inter-American Indigenous Conference on Indian Life.<ref name=":3" /> His administration experimented with policies, new bureaucratic structures, and administrators with particular ideas about Indigenous peoples and their relationship to the Mexican state and culture.<br />
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=== Educational reform ===<br />
The SEP during Cárdenas presidency increased the number and quality of schools for Indigenous communities.<ref>{{Cite journal|title = Indigenous people's historical background and their current participation within the Mexican educational system and society|last1 = Martinez Santiago|first1 = Veronica|date = 2010|journal = |doi = |pmid = |publisher = Concordia University (Canada)|id = {{ProQuest|807456543}}}}</ref> Cardenas was also an advocate for bi-lingual education and in 1939 the SEP started a bi-lingual education program, where Indigenous schools were taught in regional languages then slowly transitioned to Spanish. This was the first time national education programs used Indigenous languages to acculturate Indigenous children.<ref name=":0" /> To support this program, bilingual teachers were trained to educate Indigenous communities formally, linguistically, and culturally. Ultimately, a lack of proper use of Indigenous languages by bilingual teachers and Indigenous resistance to cultural education meant the project only succeeded at acculturating individuals as opposed to creating regional social transformations<ref name=":0" /><br />
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=== Department of Indigenous Affairs ===<br />
In January 1936, the Cárdenas administration established of the Department of Indigenous Affairs (DAI) in 1936, which Mexican ethnologist and diplomat [[Moisés Sáenz]] helped plan. The department's primary agenda was facilitating a combination of advocacy, education, and economic development.<ref name=":3" /> The first director of the DAI was [[:es:Graciano Sánchez|Graciano Sánchez]], who had worked to supplant local agrarian leagues in Tamaulipas in favor of peasant organizations connected to Cárdenas's confederation of campesinos. This administrative pick points to Cárdenas's desire to mobilize peasants politically under the control of the Mexican state.<ref>Dawson, ''Indian and Nation'', p. 74.</ref> Important DAI personnel were ''procuradores'', who collected ethnographic information about Indigenous peoples, who acted as intermediaries between the Indigenous and the Mexican state. These intermediaries brought Indian complaints to federal agencies regarding ejido grants and limits, irrigation and other water rights, issues of real importance for Indigenous communities. In 1937-38, the procuradores forwarded some 11,000 complaints, which brought about change in ejidal authorities, prompted actions against judicial authorities in favor of Indians and campesinos, resolved conflicts between Indians and the Banco Crédito Ejidal. The number of wins for the Indigenous was relatively modest overall, but for those it benefited these were important.<ref>Dawson, ''Indian and Nation'', pp. 75-76</ref> During Sánchez's tenure, authority over Indigenous schools was transferred from the Ministry of Education (SEP) to the Department of Indigenous Affairs. The results were disastrous for that experiment in Indian education. Sánchez left the DAI to oversee the Confederación Nacional Campesina and was replaced by the scholar [[:es:Luis Chávez Orozco|Luis Chávez Orozco]].<ref>Dawson, ''Indian and Nation'', pp. 75-78.</ref><br />
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The Department was later renamed Department of Autonomous Indigenous Affairs (DAAI). The DAAI would accomplish its agenda through scientific research to understand Indigenous peoples and issues then create executive policies to respond to those issues. The DAAI ceased to exist by 1947, in the years when Mexico was concentrating on modernization and industrialization, often called the [[Mexican Miracle]]. DAAI was replaced with the National Indigenist Institute (INI) in 1948. The failure has been attributed to the delay in the creation of the [[Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia|National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH)]] in 1939, which stagnated the progress of the DAAI.<ref>{{cite book|last1 = Palacios|first1 = Guillermo|title = Populism in twentieth century Mexico: the presidencies of Lázaro Cárdenas and Luis Echeverría|date = 2010|publisher = University of Arizona Press|location = Tucson|pages = }}</ref><br />
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=== Land reform ===<br />
To improve the economic conditions in rural areas, Cárdenas distributed an average of 22 hectares to 811,157 people from 1928–1940, which was more than all his predecessors combined for the purpose of creating communal farms or [[Ejidos]].<ref name=":2" /> These ejidos acted as a new administrative unit that incorporated Indigenous communities into the structure of the state.<ref name="Dietz 2004 38">{{Cite book|title = The struggle for Indigenous rights in Latin America|last1 = Dietz|first1 = Gunther|publisher = Sussex Academic Press|year = 2004|isbn = |location = Brighton [England]; Portland, Or.|pages = 38}}</ref> When faced with Indigenous resistance to state land reform, agrarian teachers were sent to educate them on benefits institutionalized reform.<ref name=":0" /> Due to continued resistance from Indigenous communities as well as resistance from large landowners, and the failure of communal land systems to sustain the growing rural population, Cárdenas's land reform remained largely incomplete. While overall national poverty was reduced, there were still large disparities in wealth between urban and rural communities and even larger ones between non-Indigenous and Indigenous communities.<ref name=":2" /><br />
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=== First Inter-American Conference on Indian Life ===<br />
In 1940, Cárdenas hosted delegates and participants from 19 American countries, totaling 250 people, at a conference in [[Pátzcuaro]], Michoacan, Mexico to discuss and reevaluate the role of Indigenous populations in American nations. The conference was mainly run and organized by Mexican education reform advocate and indigensita, [[Moises Saenz]]. Saenz was an active proponent that cultural pluralism was the only way to accomplish integration of Indigenous groups into the national identity as citizens. The importance of this conference was the potential change in scale to continental Indigenismo and the creation of a Pan-American system. After discussion of a number of topics concerning Indigenous populations the conference came up with two main objectives. They worked toward improving all aspects of Indigenous life and working to protect and preserve their diverse customs and traditions. The conference also decided to establish the Inter-American Indian Institute (III) "an intergovernmental body specializing in the Indian question"<ref name=":8">{{Cite journal|title = Neither "Scientific" nor "Colonialist" The Ambiguous Course of Inter-American Indigenismo in the 1940s|last1 = Giraudo|first1 = Laura|date = 2012-09-01|journal = Latin American Perspectives|doi = 10.1177/0094582x12447275|pmid = |volume=39|issue = 5|pages=12–32|s2cid = 144012729}}</ref> which would supplement the individual national Indigenous departments. Saenz was appointed as the director of the Institute, but was killed in a car accident the following year. Gamio was later elected as director of the Institute.<ref name=":8" /><br />
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Due to the inability of its small members to contribute funds, the economic toll of World War II and a change in Mexico's administration which had been its biggest supporter, the III became largely unfunded and had to turn to foreign funding to implement the projects agreed upon at and after the conference. This funding came largely from private investment companies from the United States, which limited what types of projects would be funded. With the start of the [[Cold War]] came a change in US foreign policy and III project resources became very scarce.<ref name=":8" /><br />
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== Under Echeverría (1970–1976)==<br />
[[File:MX MM IZTAPALAPA VARIOS (49522443632) (cropped).jpg|thumb|The [[Museo Cabeza de Juárez|Cabeza de Juárez]] monument, built to honor [[Benito Juárez]], a [[Zapotec peoples|Zapotec]] politician]]<br />
[[Luis Echeverría]] served as President of Mexico from 1970-1976. He attempted to resurrect the populist presidency of Cárdenas and expanded on his Indigenista policies. These policies up to this point had been purely determined and directed by government officials. In 1970, Echeverría publicly announced his concern of the lack of Indigenous participation in national intellectual and civic discourse and stated Indigenous peoples were at risk to "become foreigners in their own country".<ref name=":3" /> Echeverría intended to change Indian policies so Indigenous groups became active participants in the development and had a voice in determining policy with "participatory Indigenismo".<ref name=":3" /> While his administration made unprecedented attempts to respect ethnic pluralism, its goal remained political, social, and economic integration of the Indigenous population.<ref name=":3" /> Early in his career he met with the Instituto Nacional Indigenista (INI) and promised to commit to the economic and political development of Indigenous communities by increasing funding for the INI. From 1970 to 1976 the INI's budget was increased from 26 million pesos to 450 million pesos. He also increased resources on the ground for Indigenous groups by opening 58 more Indigenous Coordinating Centers (CCI), which were regional INI offices that acted as liaisons between the capital and Indigenous populations across the nation.<ref name=":3" /><br />
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=== Plan Huicot ===<br />
Early in his term, Echeverría initiated Plan Huicot to implement his promise of committing federal resources to the development of Indigenous communities. The plan was headed up by Echeverría's new director of the INI, Gonzalo Aguirre Beltrán, a Mexican anthropologist. Throughout these development programs, INI acted as a liaison between Indigenous communities and other federal agencies and as a distributor of the resources of those collaborating agencies. Plan Huicot was the first of many plans to address the economic issues Indigenous communities faced. Through Plan Huicot and the following initiatives the federal government invested $96.5 million pesos from 1971-1973.<ref name=":5" /><br />
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In terms of economic development, the INI invested in Indigenous agricultural production with programs for providing equipment, environmental sustainability, providing professional assistance, as well as helping gain land titles and other legal services concerning land ownership. Under the Echeverría administration, the INI handled 838 land title cases which eventually benefited 243,500 Indigenous peoples. Echeverria also distributed 6.5 million hectares to Indigenous groups.<ref name=":5" /><br />
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The INI also expanded medical services and patient capacity in the CCI's. Indigenous use of these services was limited at first because of mistrust of Western medicine and preference for traditional medicine and treatments. To break down this mistrust, the INI provided scholarships to Indigenous youth to train as medical personal and trained 88 doctors and 382 medical assistants by 1976.<ref name=":5" /><br />
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Indigenous communities had mistrusted past Indigenista education programs when non-Indigenous professionals were sent in. To increase the effectiveness and Indigenous participation in public education, the INI replaced mestizo teachers with Indigenous ones. They also increased training of bilingual teachers and cultural promoters from 3500 in 1970 to 14,000 (8,000 cultural promoters and 6,000 teachers) in 1976. The role of cultural promoters was to relay the mission of the INI to Indigenous communities as a native Indigenous speaker. Both the teachers and promoters were trained by the SEP, but worked through the CCI's as part of an agency collaboration.<ref name=":5" /><br />
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=== First National Congress of Indigenous People ===<br />
In Pátzcuaro, Michoacán the First National Congress of Indigenous People was held from October 7–10, 1975. It was preceded by 58 regional conferences held at the Indigenous Coordinating Centers to discuss the problems local Indigenous communities were facing. From those regional conferences delegates were selected by the communities to represent them at the national conference. 56 delegations of about 15 delegates were present. There were over 2500 Indigenous people in attendance including delegates and general participants.<ref name=":3" /> The original agenda of the conference specifically included the discussion of land reform and the integration of marginalized ethnic groups as well as generally attaining Indigenous economic, social, and political rights. The governments hope was that the conference would give agency to Indigenous communities to create their own vision of progress.<ref name=":3" /><br />
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The final demands of the Indigenous delegates to Echeverría included improved distribution of land and resources, improved infrastructure for travel and medical care, the nationalization of agricultural industries, access to credit, fair rates for artisan products, bilingual and bicultural education for all ages, and gender equality. In addition, there was call for Indigenous autonomy, [[self-determination]], and federal recognition of Indigenous uses and customs.<ref name=":3" /> Indigenous leaders justified their demand for self-determination in claiming it was their given right from the Mexican Revolution. Enacting self-determination meant a voluntary incorporation by Indigenous peoples into national society as Mexican citizens<ref name=":3" /><br />
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After the reading of the document, Echeverría assured the Congress of his administrations commitment to ending marginalization of the Indigenous populations and distributed resolutions giving 1 million hectares to 23,736 Indian families as well as certificates of recognition.<ref name=":3" /> The Congress gave Indigenous people a platform to voice their concerns and influence policy as well as prompt additional conferences to create a resurgence of Indigenous mobilization<ref name=":3" /> Echeverría's six-year presidential term ended in December 1976, so that his promises made this late in his presidency would have to be taken up by the next administration.<br />
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==Under López Obrador (2018–2024)==<br />
{{empty section|date=September 2022}}<br />
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== Criticism ==<br />
The Departamento de Asuntos Indígenas (DAI), established by Cárdenas in 1936, maintained the country for Indigenous people, and the intent of indigenista policies disinterested Mexicans generally. Government attempts to remake the image of Mexico's Indigenous were far from reality and many Mexicans saw that image as an ideological construct at odds with most urban Mexicans' perceptions of the Indigenous. According to historian Alexander Dawson, these government programs "were the products of a commitment on the part of the central state to prioritize the Indian as a national problem and national icon, but were never widely supported outside of fairly narrow circles" of indigenistas.<ref>Dawson, ''Indian and Nation'', p. 143.</ref><br />
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A number of urban Mexicans opposed to the government's indigenista projects began framing their opposition to them in terms of [[Eugenics in Mexico|eugenics]], attributing the situation of the Indigenous as due to heredity. A 1936 editorial in the Mexico City newspaper ''Excelcior'' stated "The Mendelian theory of inheritance serves as a basis of vigorously opposing the humanitarian work of the Government. The norms of the contemporary Indians have been passed from parents to their children as a sacred trust, and it is no simple task to remove these obstacles."<ref>"El problema indigena en el país", ''Excelcior'', 28 September 1936 quoted in Dawson, ''Indian and Nation'', p. 147.</ref> Eugenics underpinned the Nazis' genocidal programs and after World War II would not be asserted as a scientific position.<br />
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One of the leftist critics of Indigenismo in Mexico was Mexican anthropologist [[Guillermo Bonfil Batalla]] (1935-1991). He helped organize the First National Congress of Indigenous Peoples and was a large proponent of Indigenous self-determination. Along with other Mexican anthropologists Bonfil Batalla criticized Indigenismo's attempt to "incorporate the Indian, that is, de-Indianize him"<ref>{{Cite book|title = México profundo : reclaiming a civilization / by Guillermo Bonfil Batalla ; translated by Philip A. Dennis|url = https://archive.org/details/mexicoprofundore0000bonf|url-access = registration|last1 = Bonfil Batalla|first1 = Guillermo|publisher = University of Texas Press|year = 1996|isbn = |location = Austin|pages = [https://archive.org/details/mexicoprofundore0000bonf/page/116 116]}}</ref> and trying to create a mestizo national identity. Instead, Bonfil Batalla called for a pluri-national state of co-existence where diverse cultural groups that can pursue their own goals free of impositions from Western culture.<ref name=":4">{{Cite book|title = México profundo : reclaiming a civilization / by Guillermo Bonfil Batalla ; translated by Philip A. Dennis|url = https://archive.org/details/mexicoprofundore0000bonf|url-access = registration|last1 = Bonfil Batalla|first1 = Guillermo México profundo English|publisher = University of Texas Press|year = 1996|isbn = |location = Austin|pages = }}</ref> In January 1971, Bonfil Batalla and other anthropologists, including Darcy Ribiero and Stefano Varese, met in Barbados and released a Declaration that called for a redirection of the roles of the government, religious organizations, and anthropologists in their relationships with Indigenous groups. The redirection involved a respect for Indigenous culture and transferring power and authority over Indigenous community development to the Indigenous communities.<ref name=":5">{{Cite book|title = "We speak for ourselves": The first national congress of Indigenous peoples and the politics of indigenismo in Mexico, 1968--1982|last1 = Munoz|first1 = Maria|year = 2009|isbn = |location = |pages = }}</ref><br />
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In his work ''Mexico Profundo'', Bonfil Batalla rejects that Mexico is a mestizo country and claims the mestizo nation building projects like Indigenismo have created an "Imaginary Mexico" formed from the dominant groups from Mexico's colonial history. The real Mexico or "México Profundo" is made up of the large groups of individuals and communities who are still culturally tied to the Mesoamerican civilization.<ref name=":4" /> Bonfil Batalla describes how these two identities have been in conflict for the past 500 years of Mexican history as Mexico Profundo actively resists incorporation attempts by the imaginary Mexico. He claims that the nation will fall apart if it continues to ignore the Mexico Profundo and continue with mestizo nation building policies. The pluri-cultural state he proposes would tolerate Western or mestizo culture, as all cultures would be respected and free from oppression and would be structured in an equal way instead of in opposition to each other. For the creation of a pluri-cultural state is to give cultural control to local communities, including social organization and education and to give equal political participation to the Mexico Profundo.<ref name=":4" /><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[Indigenismo in the United States]]<br />
* [[Indigenous peoples of Mexico]]<br />
* [[Pretendian]]<br />
* [[Taíno]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{Reflist|2}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
* Barnet-Sánchez, Holly. "Indigenismo and Pre-Hispanic Revivals" in ''The Oxford Encyclopedia of Mesoamerican Culture''. vol. 2, pp.&nbsp;42–44. Oxford University Press 2001.<br />
*Bonfil Batalla, Guillermo (1996). ''México profundo : reclaiming a civilization'' / by Guillermo Bonfil Batalla ; translated by Philip A. Dennis. Austin, TX: University of Texas Press. {{ISBN|0292708440}}.<br />
*Baud, Michiel (2009). ''Indigenous peoples, civil society, and the neo-liberal state in Latin America''. New York: Berghahn Books. pp.&nbsp;19–42. {{ISBN|1845455975}}.<br />
* [[David Brading|Brading, D.A.]] "Manuel Gamio and Official Indigenismo in Mexico" ''[[Bulletin of Latin American Research]]'' 7.1 (1988), 75-89.<br />
*Dawson, Alexander (May 1998). "From Models for the Nation to Model Citizens: Indigenismo and the 'Revindication' of the Mexican Indian, 1920-40". Journal of Latin American Studies. 30 (2): 279–308.<br />
*Dawson, Alexander S. 2004. ''Indian and Nation in Revolutionary Mexico''. Tucson: University of Arizona Press. {{ISBN|0-8165-2345-2}}<br />
* [[Alan Knight (historian)|Knight, Alan]], “Racism, Revolution, and Indigenismo," in ''The Idea of Race in the Latin America, 1870-1940'', edited by Richard Graham, University of Texas Press, 1990. <br />
*Lewis, Stephen E. (2005). ''The ambivalent revolution: forging state and nation in Chiapas, 1910-1945''. Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press. {{ISBN|0826336019}}.<br />
*Lopez, Rick Anthony (2010). ''Crafting Mexico: intellectuals, artisans, and the state after the revolution''. Durham, NC: Duke University Press. {{ISBN|0822347032}}.<br />
*Muñoz, Maria L. O.; Kiddle, Amelia (2010). ''Populism in twentieth century Mexico: the presidencies of Lázaro Cárdenas and Luis Echeverría''. Tucson: University of Arizona Press. {{ISBN|0816529183}}.<br />
*Postero, Nancy Grey; Zamosc, Leon (2004). ''The struggle for indigenous rights in Latin America''. Brighton [England]; Portland, Or.: Sussex Academic Press. {{ISBN|1845190637}}.<br />
*Saldivar, Emiko (April 1, 2011). "Everyday Practices of Indigensimo: An Ethnography of Anthropology and the State in Mexico". The Journal of Latin American and Caribbean Anthropology. 16 (1): 67-89. doi:10.1111/j.1935-4940.2011.01125.x.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Indigenismo in Mexico| ]]<br />
[[Category:Mexican nationalism]]<br />
[[Category:Anti-Indigenous racism in Mexico]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Amazon_Appstore&diff=1276787506Amazon Appstore2025-02-20T19:24:25Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{short description|App store by Amazon}}<br />
{{Infobox software<br />
| name = Amazon Appstore<br />
| logo = Amazon-appstore-logo-brandlogos.net w0wgxxj25 (1).svg<br />
| logo size = 200px<br />
| screenshot = Amazon App Store.png<br />
| screenshot size = 200px<br />
| developer = [[Amazon (company)|Amazon.com Services, LLC]]<br />
| released = March 22, 2011<br />
<!--<br />
| status = Active / 800,000+ apps<br />
-->| latest_release_version = release-32.52.1.0.204529.0_800923810<br />
| operating_system = [[Fire OS]], [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[BlackBerry 10]], [[Windows 11]]<br />
| included with = [[Fire OS]], [[BlackBerry 10]]<br />
| genre = [[App store]]<br />
| license = [[proprietary software|Proprietary]]<br />
| website = {{URL|https://www.amazon.com/gp/mas/get/android/}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Amazon Appstore''' is an [[app store]] for [[Android (operating system)|Android]]-compatible platforms operated by Amazon.com Services, LLC, a subsidiary of [[Amazon (company)|Amazon]]. On August 20, 2025 the Amazon Appstore will be inaccessible on third party Android devices and apps bought from the Amazon Appstore will no longer work on those devices, but will continue for Fire Tablets.<ref>{{cite web|author=Amazon.com |url=https://www.amazon.com/gp/mas/appstore/android/faq |title=Amazon Appstore on Android and Coins will be discontinued on August 20, 2025 |publisher=amazon.com |date=2025-02-20 |access-date=2025-02-20}}</ref> <br />
<br />
The store is primarily used as the storefront for Amazon's Android-based [[Fire OS]]. including [[Amazon Fire]] [[Tablet computer|tablets]], and [[Amazon Fire TV]] [[digital media player]]s, and can be [[Sideloading|sideloaded]] and installed manually on third-party Android devices. Some Android devices may also be [[Pre-installed software|bundled]] with Amazon Appstore as part of compensation agreements.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-08-16 |title=Verizon Offered to Install Marketers' Apps Directly on Subscribers' Phones |url=https://adage.com/article/digital/verizon-selling-brands-app-installs-direct-phones/305462 |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=Ad Age |language=en}}</ref> It is also used as a source of Android software for runtime environments on [[BlackBerry 10]] and [[Windows 11]].<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
The Amazon Appstore launched on March 22, 2011 and was made available in nearly 200 countries.<ref>{{cite web|author=Amazon.com |url=https://developer.amazon.com/post/Tx3IJP9TKDQOXS5/Developers-Can-Now-Distribute-Apps-in-Nearly-200-Countries-Worldwide-on-Amazon.html |title=Developers Can Now Distribute Apps in Nearly 200 Countries Worldwide on Amazon - Amazon Mobile App Distribution Blog |publisher=Developer.amazon.com |date=2013-05-23 |access-date=2013-11-27}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=October 2022}} Developers are paid 70% of the [[list price]] of the app or in-app purchase.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sigitarinto.com/2011/03/22/amazon-app-store/ |title=Amazon Appstore &#124; Android |publisher=SigitArinto.com |date=2011-03-22 |access-date=2011-04-05 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110827070545/http://sigitarinto.com/2011/03/22/amazon-app-store/ |archive-date=2011-08-27 }}</ref> Notable features that were included on launch included a "Free App of the Day" promotion, which offered different paid apps at no charge daily,<ref name=":0">{{cite web |author=Jason Kincaid |date=2011-03-22 |title=Amazon's Android App Store Launches: Test Drive Apps Directly From Your Browser |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/03/22/amazon-android-app-store-3/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110328065244/http://techcrunch.com/2011/03/22/amazon-android-app-store-3/ |archive-date=28 March 2011 |access-date=2011-04-05 |publisher=Techcrunch.com}}</ref> and "Test Drive", which allowed users to demo apps in a web browser using a [[Adobe Flash]] client virtualized Android instance running on [[Amazon EC2]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2015-04-17 |title=Amazon Shuts Down TestDrive, The Appstore Feature That Let You Try Apps Before Downloading |url=https://techcrunch.com/2015/04/17/amazon-shuts-down-testdrive-the-appstore-feature-that-let-you-try-apps-before-downloading/ |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
In September 2011, Amazon announced the [[Amazon Fire]] tablet, which uses Amazon Appstore as its main source of apps.<ref>{{cite web |last=Tung |first=Liam |date=September 20, 2011 |title=Amazon opens global Appstore by stealth |url=http://www.itnews.com.au/News/272516,amazon-opens-global-appstore-by-stealth.aspx |access-date=March 18, 2013 |publisher=Itnews.com.au}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Savov |first=Vlad |date=2011-09-28 |title=Amazon Kindle Fire price and specs revealed: 7-inch IPS display, dual-core processor, $199 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2011/9/28/2457354/amazon-kindle-fire-price-specs-release-date |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=The Verge |language=en-US}}</ref> Ahead of the official release of Fire, Appstore was updated to include parental controls, a manager for subscriptions, and UI updates to adhere to the Fire's Android user interface.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Parish |first=Joseph |date=2011-11-11 |title=Amazon Appstore gets updated to version 2.0, adds subscription support |url=https://www.theverge.com/android/2011/11/10/2552886/amazon-appstore-update-subscriptions-support |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=The Verge |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2013, Amazon introduced [[Amazon Coin]]s as a form of payment for purchasing apps, games, and [[in-app purchases]] from the store.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2013/may/14/amazon-coins-virtual-currency|title=Amazon launches Coins virtual currency|last=Flood|first=Alison|date=2013-05-14|work=The Guardian|access-date=2019-05-26|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref> In August 2013, Amazon Appstore added support for [[HTML5]] [[web apps]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2013-08-07 |title=Amazon Appstore Now Open To Web Apps, With One-Click In-App Purchases In Tow |url=https://techcrunch.com/2013/08/07/amazon-appstore-now-open-to-web-apps-with-one-click-in-app-purchases-in-tow/ |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
The Test Drive feature was decommissioned in April 2015; Amazon stated that the service had been in decline, partly due to many apps not supporting the feature, and the increasing prevalence of the [[free-to-play]] business model making it obsolete.<ref name=":1" /><br />
<br />
In August 2015, Amazon Appstore replaced its daily free app program with "Actually Free", which was modeled after the [[Kindle Unlimited]] program. Apps in the program were offered at no charge to users, with Amazon paying revenue to developers based on per-minute usage of the apps by end-users.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Singleton |first=Micah |date=2015-08-26 |title=Amazon launches Underground to promote free apps and games |url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/8/26/9210071/amazon-underground-free-apps |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=The Verge |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2017-04-29 |title=Amazon is shutting down its 'Underground Actually Free' program that gives away free Android apps |url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/04/28/amazon-is-shutting-down-its-underground-actually-free-program-that-gives-away-free-android-apps/ |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> By contrast, developers did not receive any revenue for apps offered under the previous free app promotions.<ref>{{cite web |date=2011-07-05 |title=Amazon Appstore, Not so Amazing |url=http://gigaom.com/2011/07/05/amazon-appstore-not-so-amazing/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709060730/http://gigaom.com/2011/07/05/amazon-appstore-not-so-amazing/ |archive-date=9 July 2011 |access-date=2011-07-06 |publisher=GigaOM}}</ref> The "Actually Free" collection was accessible via a section of Amazon Appstore on Fire OS, but required users to download the separate "Amazon Underground" app (a version of the main Amazon retail app that integrated Appstore) on other Android devices.<ref>{{cite web |date=2015-08-26 |title=Amazon Ditches Its Free App Of The Day In Favor of Amazon Underground, With '$10,000 Worth of Apps And Games That Are Actually Free' |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/2015/08/26/amazon-ditches-its-free-app-of-the-day-in-favor-of-amazon-underground-with-10000-worth-of-apps-and-games-that-are-actually-free/?amp |access-date=2020-10-30 |work=Androidpolice.com}}</ref><ref name=":2" /><br />
<br />
In August 2017, Amazon announced that the Actually Free program would be discontinued, citing other monetization options such as Coins and Merch on Demand. The shutdown occurred in phases, with the program ending in 2019.<ref name=":3" /><br />
<br />
== History of app growth ==<br />
When the Amazon Appstore for Android launched in March 2011, it had about 3,800 apps. It reached 80,000 apps in June 2013 and 240,000 apps in June 2014.<ref>[http://www.androidcentral.com/amazon-appstore-triples-selection-240000-apps Amazon Appstore triples selection to 240,000 apps] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714212416/http://www.androidcentral.com/amazon-appstore-triples-selection-240000-apps|date=2014-07-14}} June 2014.</ref> In June 2015, the app store had nearly 334,000 apps.<ref>[https://www.amazon.com/mobile-apps/b?node=2350149011 Amazon App Store for Android]. Retrieved 23 June 2015.</ref> As of October 9, 2019, the Amazon Appstore features 487,083 applications available for download.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/307330/number-of-available-apps-in-the-amazon-appstore/|title=Amazon Appstore: number of available apps by quarter 2018 {{!}} Statistic|website=Statista|language=en|access-date=2019-01-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Use on third-party Android-compatible platforms ==<br />
Amazon Appstore has also been adopted by several operating systems as a source of Android-compatible software, in lieu of [[Google Play]]. In June 2014, [[BlackBerry Limited]] announced that it would add Amazon Appstore to [[BlackBerry 10]] (which is based on [[real-time operating system]] [[QNX]]) beginning with version 10.3 for use with its Android runtime.<ref name="pcmag-28kandroid">{{cite web |last=Segan |first=Sascha |date=January 31, 2013 |title=How BlackBerry 10 Runs 28,000 Android Apps Without a Back Button |url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2414928,00.asp |access-date=18 June 2014 |website=[[PC Magazine]]}}</ref><ref name="verge-amazonapp">{{cite web |title=BlackBerry will bring thousands of apps from Amazon's store to its phones |url=https://www.theverge.com/2014/6/18/5820472/blackberry-phones-getting-amazon-appstore-apps-in-bb10-3 |access-date=18 June 2014 |website=The Verge|date=18 June 2014 }}</ref><br />
<br />
In June 2021, Microsoft announced that Amazon Appstore would be offered via [[Microsoft Store]] on [[Windows 11]], for use with [[Windows Subsystem for Android]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Warren |first=Tom |date=2021-06-24 |title=Microsoft is bringing Android apps to Windows 11 with Amazon's Appstore |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/6/24/22548428/microsoft-windows-11-android-apps-support-amazon-store |access-date=2022-10-25 |website=The Verge |language=en-US}}</ref> On March 5, 2024, Microsoft announced deprecation of WSA with support ending on March 5, 2025. As a result, support for the Amazon Appstore on Windows and apps installed from it would also end on March 5, 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hachman |first=Mark |date=2024-03-05 |title=Microsoft is killing Android apps on Windows 11 |url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/2256353/microsoft-is-killing-android-apps-on-windows-11.html |access-date=2024-03-06 |website=PCWorld |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Availability==<br />
Some countries are able to shop for apps on their local Amazon website.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Amazon Appstore Compatible Devices and Supported Countries by Marketplace - Amazon Customer Service | website=Amazon |url=https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=GG6HESXQN45DZQ8N}}</ref> Countries with a local website that only offer a limited range of services, and countries without a local website can shop for apps on the US-based website Amazon.com<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"<br />
|-<br />
! style="width: 250px;" | Country !! [[Domain name]]<br />
|-<br />
| United States, and various eligible countries & territories<ref>{{Cite web |title=Countries & Territories Eligible to Shop for Apps on Amazon.com - Amazon Customer Service | website=Amazon |url=https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=GSXRFWKVKXYMK8GS}}</ref> || {{URL|amazon.com/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| Canada || {{URL|amazon.ca/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| Japan || {{URL|amazon.co.jp/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| United Kingdom, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey || {{URL|amazon.co.uk/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| Australia, New Zealand, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Norfolk Island, Cook Island, Niue, Tokelau || {{URL|amazon.com.au/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| Brazil || {{URL|amazon.com.br/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Finland, Netherlands || {{URL|amazon.de/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| Spain, Andorra, Portugal || {{URL|amazon.es/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| France metropolitan, Switzerland, Monaco, Belgium || {{URL|amazon.fr/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| India || {{URL|amazon.in/appstore}}<br />
|-<br />
| Italy, Vatican City, San Marino, Switzerland || {{URL|amazon.it/appstore}}<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Reception ==<br />
Shortly after the Amazon Appstore launch, the [[International Game Developers Association]] (IGDA) published an open letter expressing concerns that were primarily aimed at Amazon's distribution terms.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://igdaboard.wordpress.com/2011/04/14/important-advisory-about-amazon%E2%80%99s-appstore-distribution-terms-2/ |title=Important Advisory about Amazon's Appstore Distribution Terms |publisher=[[International Game Developers Association]] |access-date=2011-05-14|quote=''We are not aware of any other retailer having a formal policy of paying a supplier just 20% of the supplier's minimum list price without the supplier's permission.(...)If you ever conduct even a temporary price promotion in another market, you must permanently lower your list price in Amazon's market''| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110430031238/http://igdaboard.wordpress.com/2011/04/14/important-advisory-about-amazon%E2%80%99s-appstore-distribution-terms-2/| archive-date= 30 April 2011 | url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/appsblog/2011/apr/14/amazon-android-appstore-igda |title=IGDA warns Android game developers about Amazon's Appstore terms|publisher=[[guardian.co.uk]] |date=2011-04-14 |access-date=2011-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/34108/IGDA_Outlines_Significant_Concerns_Over_Amazon_Appstore_Terms.php |title=IGDA Outlines 'Significant Concerns' Over Amazon Appstore Terms|publisher=[[Gamasutra]] |date=2011-04-14 |access-date=2011-05-14| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110510075823/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/34108/IGDA_Outlines_Significant_Concerns_Over_Amazon_Appstore_Terms.php| archive-date= 10 May 2011 | url-status= live}}</ref> The main concerns about the conditions were that Appstore terms force developers to permanently lower their Appstore prices if ever they do promotions on other stores, and that Amazon could choose to lower the price of an application while deciding to reduce the developer's share without having to ask permission. Following this address, Amazon clarified the Appstore developer agreement,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.amazonappstoredev.com/2011/04/clarification-about-amazon-appstore-developer-agreement.html |title=Clarification about Amazon Appstore Developer Agreement|publisher=[[Amazon.com, Inc.]] |date=2011-04-15 |access-date=2011-05-14| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110511085347/http://www.amazonappstoredev.com/2011/04/clarification-about-amazon-appstore-developer-agreement.html| archive-date= 11 May 2011 | url-status= live}}</ref> but this did not assuage the IGDA's concerns, which declared that "Amazon's terms represent a threat to game developers".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://igdaboard.wordpress.com/2011/04/19/amazon%E2%80%99s-clarification-fails-to-address-game-developer-concerns/ |title=Amazon's clarification fails to address game developer concerns |publisher=[[International Game Developers Association]] |date=2011-04-19 |access-date=2011-05-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110511093033/http://igdaboard.wordpress.com/2011/04/19/amazon%E2%80%99s-clarification-fails-to-address-game-developer-concerns/ |archive-date=11 May 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.canardpc.com/news-52508-tir_de_barrage_contre_amazon.html |title=Tir de barrage contre Amazon |publisher=[[Canard PC]] |date=2011-04-14 |access-date=2011-05-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110518041449/http://www.canardpc.com/news-52508-tir_de_barrage_contre_amazon.html |archive-date=2011-05-18 |url-status=dead }}</ref><br />
<br />
In July 2011, the Swedish developer Bithack pulled its ''Apparatus'' application from the Appstore and published an open letter explaining that the store was a "disaster" for indie developers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bithack.se/news/apparatus-amazon-july-4-2011.html|title=Apparatus will be pulled from Amazon Appstore|quote=''If you are a small indie development team, or possibly even alone, don't bother with Amazon Appstore. Create a great app, publish it on Android Market, and provide great customer support. You will never succeed on Amazon Appstore without a big wallet, or at least an established reputation so that Amazon puts value behind their promises.''|publisher=bithack.se|date=2011-07-04|access-date=2011-07-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110705190345/http://bithack.se/news/apparatus-amazon-july-4-2011.html|archive-date=2011-07-05|url-status=dead}}</ref> The main problems related to the very slow review process, the absence of any means to filter unsupported devices, and that Amazon changed the price of the application without consulting the developer,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/2084090/game-developer-pulls-app-amazon-appstore |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709023853/http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/2084090/game-developer-pulls-app-amazon-appstore |url-status=unfit |archive-date=July 9, 2011 |title=Game developer pulls app from Amazon Appstore over problems |quote=''The final problem was that Amazon changed the price without consulting the developer. The price was cut to $0.99, only a quarter of its original price, which, while perhaps good for players, is not good for the developer.''|publisher=[[The Inquirer]] |date=2011-07-05|access-date=2011-07-15}}</ref> leading to the IGDA reiterating its warnings concerning Amazon's policy once again.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/igda-still-unhappy-with-amazon-appstore-policies/|title=IGDA still unhappy with Amazon Appstore policies|publisher=Joystiq|date=2011-07-08|access-date=2011-07-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714112306/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/igda-still-unhappy-with-amazon-appstore-policies/|archive-date=2011-07-14|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />
<br />
{{See also|Apple Inc. litigation#Amazon "App Store"}}<br />
<br />
== Accusation of trademark infringement by Apple ==<br />
{{See also|Apple Inc. litigation#Amazon "App Store"}}<br />
<br />
[[Apple Inc.|Apple]] filed a lawsuit against Amazon for using a similar name to the Apple [[App Store (iOS)|App Store]].<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.cnn.com/2011/TECH/web/03/22/apple.amazon.app.fast/index.html | title=Apple sues Amazon over 'app store' name | publisher=CNN Tech | date=March 22, 2011 | access-date=September 15, 2012 | author=Eaton, Kit}}</ref> Amazon claimed that the term was too generic to be trademarked, and asked the judge to dismiss the suit.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://arstechnica.com/apple/2011/04/amazon-responds-to-apple-app-store-is-generic-toss-the-suit/ | title=Amazon responds to Apple: "app store" is generic, toss the suit | publisher=Ars Technica | date=April 26, 2011 | access-date=September 15, 2012 | author=Cheng, Jacqui}}</ref> Apple responded to Amazon's attempted dismissal of the lawsuit by claiming that Amazon was tarnishing the trademark by using the name.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.electronista.com/articles/11/06/10/apple.filing.says.amazon.drags.down.app.store.name/ | title=Apple claims Amazon Appstore 'tarnishes' App Store trademark | publisher=Electronista | date=June 10, 2011 | access-date=September 15, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121101134122/http://www.electronista.com/articles/11/06/10/apple.filing.says.amazon.drags.down.app.store.name/ | archive-date=November 1, 2012 | url-status=dead }}</ref> A federal judge denied Apple's request for a preliminary injunction, disagreeing with Amazon's claim that the term is generic, and citing that Apple had not established "a likelihood of confusion" with Amazon's services to obtain an injunction.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-amazon-ruling-idUSTRE76604S20110707 | title=Judge rejects Apple bid for injunction against Amazon | publisher=Reuters | date=July 6, 2011 | access-date=September 15, 2012 | author=Levine, Dan}}</ref> Apple changed its complaint after Amazon started advertising the [[Kindle Fire]], now saying that Amazon is trying to confuse customers further by dropping the "for Android" part of "Amazon Appstore for Android." In the amended complaint, Apple wrote that "Amazon's use is also likely to lessen the goodwill associated with Apple's App Store service and Apple products designed to utilize Apple's App Store service by associating Apple's App Store service with the inferior qualities of Amazon's service."<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.wired.com/business/2011/11/kindle-fire-app-store-suit/ | title=Kindle Fire Dragged Into Apple's 'App Store' Suit Against Amazon | publisher=Wired | work=Ars Technica | date=November 18, 2011 | access-date=September 15, 2012 | author=Cheng, Jacqui}}</ref><br />
<br />
In January 2013, Apple's claims were rejected by a US District judge, who argued that the company presented no evidence that Amazon had "[attempted] to mimic Apple's site or advertising", or communicated that its service "possesses the characteristics and qualities that the public has come to expect from the Apple APP STORE and/or Apple products."<ref name=ars-rejected>{{cite web|title=No app for that: Apple's false ad suit over Amazon Appstore thrown out|url=https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2013/01/no-app-for-that-apples-false-ad-suit-over-amazon-appstore-thrown-out/|work=Ars Technica|date=2 January 2013 |access-date=4 September 2013}}</ref> In July 2013, Apple dropped the case.<ref>{{cite web|last=Bostic |first=Kevin |url=http://appleinsider.com/articles/13/07/09/apple-drops-app-store-lawsuit-against-amazon-says-no-need-to-pursue-case |title=Apple drops 'App Store' lawsuit against Amazon, says no need to pursue case |publisher=Appleinsider.com |date=2013-07-09 |access-date=2014-01-02}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
*[[List of mobile app distribution platforms]]<br />
*[[Google Play]]<br />
*[[App Store (Apple)]]<br />
*[[BlackBerry World]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* [https://www.amazon.com/mobile-apps/b?node=2350149011 Official website] : Amazon.com: Apps & Games<br />
* [https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/install-mobile-apps-and-the-amazon-appstore-on-windows-f8d0abb5-44ad-47d8-b9fb-ad6b1459ff6c Install mobile apps and the Amazon Appstore on Windows] at support.microsoft.com<br />
* {{official website|https://developer.amazon.com/}} : Amazon Developer Services<br />
<br />
{{Amazon}}<br />
{{Software digital distribution platforms|state=collapsed}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Amazon (company)]]<br />
[[Category:Mobile software distribution platforms]]<br />
[[Category:Online marketplaces of the United States]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bigo_Live&diff=1276315824Bigo Live2025-02-18T03:38:04Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Live streaming service}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2021}}<br />
{{Infobox website<br />
| name = Bigo Live<br />
| logo = Bigo Live logo.png<br />
| logo_caption = The logo of Bigo Live<br />
| url = {{Official URL}}<br />
| commercial = Yes/No<br />
| type = [[Live streaming]]<br />
| registration = Yes<br />
| language = 23 languages<br />
| num_users = 400 million<br />
| owner = [https://www.bigo.sg/ Bigo Technology] (JOYY)<br />
| launch_date = {{Start date and age|df=yes|2016|03}}<br />
| current_status = Active<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Bigo Live''' is a global social [[live streaming]] platform owned by BIGO Technology based in Singapore,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/av/business-49238069/why-young-indians-are-live-streaming-on-social-media|title=Why young Indians are live streaming on social media?|date=5 August 2019|work=[[BBC News]]|language=en-UK}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tiktok-india-analysis/video-app-tiktoks-india-download-ban-worries-wider-tech-industry-idUSKCN1RT1MX|title=Video app TikTok's India download ban worries wider tech industry|date=17 April 2019|work=[[Reuters]]|language=en-UK}}</ref> which was founded in 2014 by David Li and Jason Hu. As of 2019, Bigo Technology is owned by JOYY.<ref>{{Cite web|title=China's YY eyes overseas live streaming with $1.45B Bigo buyout|url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/04/yy-buys-out-bigo/|access-date=2 July 2020|website=TechCrunch|date=5 March 2019|language=en-US|archive-date=9 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230409055339/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/04/yy-buys-out-bigo/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=YY Announces Completion of Acquisition of Bigo|url=https://ir.yy.com/news-releases/news-release-details/yy-announces-completion-acquisition-bigo|access-date=5 July 2020|website=ir.yy.com|language=en|archive-date=30 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630174519/https://ir.yy.com/news-releases/news-release-details/yy-announces-completion-acquisition-bigo|url-status=dead}}</ref> <br />
<br />
Viewers are able to support their favorite [[live streaming|broadcaster]]s with in-app gifts,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2019/01/25/health/common-sense-2019-apps-partner/index.html|title=Apps you've never heard of that your teen is already using|date=25 January 2019|work=[[CNN]]|language=en-US}}</ref> and some popular broadcasters use the app as a full-time employment.{{Citation needed|date=February 2022}} Bigo owns [[Likee]], the short video creation and sharing app.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tiktok-india-analysis/video-app-tiktoks-india-download-ban-worries-wider-tech-industry-idUSKCN1RT1MX|title=Video app TikTok's India download ban worries wider tech industry|date=April 17, 2019|work=[[Reuters]]|language=en-UK}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.asianage.com/technology/in-other-news/130819/likee-launches-independence-day-campaign-for-indians-across-the-globe.html|title=Likee launches Independence Day campaign for Indians across the globe|date=13 Aug 2019|work=[[The Asian Age]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
David Li was a journalist prior to entering the technology industry, and Jason Hu had worked for many technology companies before the creation of Bigo Technology. In 2014, Bigo was founded in [[Singapore]].{{cn|date=July 2021}} In March 2019, Bigo was acquired by JOYY Inc.<ref>{{Cite news |title=YY completes Bigo acquisition to expand overseas reach |url=https://technode.com/2019/03/05/yy-completes-bigo-acquisition-to-expand-overseas-reach/ |work=Technode}}</ref><br />
<br />
In November 2019, monthly active users of the company's apps reached over 350 million globally.<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 April 2020 |title=Singapore-based Likee, led by a former factory worker, is gaining ground on TikTok |url=https://www.scmp.com/tech/apps-social/article/3080491/singapore-based-likee-led-former-factory-worker-gaining-ground |website=South China Morning Post}}</ref> In July 2020, Pakistan temporarily [[internet in Pakistan|banned]] Bigo, and warned [[TikTok]] and [[YouTube]] over immoral, obscene, and vulgar content. The [[Pakistan Telecommunications Authority]] expressed concerns about the potential negative impact on society, particularly on youth.<ref>{{cite news |date=21 July 2020 |title=Pakistan Warns Chinese TikTok, Blocks Singaporean Bigo Live App |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/07/pakistan-warns-chinese-tiktok-blocks-singaporean-bigo-live-app/ |publisher=TheDiplomat}}</ref> The [[Pakistan Telecommunication Authority]] announced the lifting of the ban on 30 July 2020 following discussions and reassurances regarding content regulation.<ref>[https://enmobile.prnasia.com/releases/apac/pakistan-telecommunication-authority-pta-lifts-ban-on-bigo-live-287008.shtml Pakistan Telecommunication Authority lifts ban on Bigo Live] ''PR Newswire'', 1 August 2020</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2020, Bigo Live announced a partnership with [[The Trevor Project]], the world's largest [[suicide prevention]] and crisis intervention organization for [[LGBTQ]] youth.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Today's News |url=https://www.dcpsych.org/todays-news?rkey=20201201NY07530&filter=9054&Bigo%20Live%20Becomes%20Official%20Corporate%20Partner%20to%20The%20Trevor%20Project%20&amp;%20Commits%20$10,000%20to%20Crisis%20Intervention%20for%20LGBTQ%20Young%20People |access-date=10 February 2021 |website=www.dcpsych.org}}</ref><br />
<br />
On 13 June 2021, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of [[Bangladesh Police]] arrested five people, including Bigo's [[Operations management|Operation Manager]], a Chinese national, in connection with allegations of [[money laundering]] and [[blackmail]]. They were charged under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, [[Digital Security Act]] and Pornography Prevention Act.<ref>{{cite news |title=Likee, Bigo Live apps used to launder over Tk100cr: CID |url=https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/crime/likee-bigo-live-apps-used-launder-over-tk100cr-cid-260359#.YMYxDDD-5cI.facebook |work=The Business Standard |date=13 June 2021 |language=en}}</ref> Bigo has been actively cooperating with local authorities to address and resolve these issues, reaffirming its commitment to compliance and community standards.<br />
<br />
On 8 December 2024, the [[New York Times]] published a report on the use of live streaming apps "downloaded from Apple and Google" for paid sexual exploitation of children, including Bigo Live. In a statement to the Times, the company said it had taken "appropriate action" on the cases mentioned in the Times article, "including account suspension and content removal". Bigo said it was "deeply committed to protecting user safety".<ref>{{cite news |title=On These Apps, the Dark Promise of Mothers Sexually Abusing Children |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/07/us/child-abuse-apple-google-apps.html |date=8 December 2024 |access-date=12 December 2024 |last=Keller |first=Michael H. |work=The New York Times}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly afterwards, Bigo Live was removed from the [[App Store (Apple)|Apple App Store]] and [[Google Play|Google Play Store]], though the app eventually returned.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Bigo Live Removed from App Store and Google Play |date=2024-12-09 |url=https://pgyer.com/apk/article/news/bigo-live-removed-from-app-store-and-google-play |access-date=2024-12-12 |work=Pyger APKhub}}</ref><br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*{{Official website}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:2016 software]]<br />
[[Category:2016 introductions]]<br />
[[Category:Social media companies]]<br />
[[Category:IOS software]]<br />
[[Category:Mobile software]]<br />
[[Category:Video software]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bigo_Live&diff=1276315739Bigo Live2025-02-18T03:37:14Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed typo</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Live streaming service}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2021}}<br />
{{Infobox website<br />
| name = Bigo Live<br />
| logo = Bigo Live logo.png<br />
| logo_caption = The logo of Bigo Live<br />
| url = {{Official URL}}<br />
| commercial = Yes/No<br />
| type = [[Live streaming]]<br />
| registration = Yes<br />
| language = 23 languages<br />
| num_users = 400 million<br />
| owner = [https://www.bigo.sg/ Bigo Technology] (JOYY)<br />
| launch_date = {{Start date and age|df=yes|2016|03}}<br />
| current_status = Active<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Bigo Live''' is a global social [[live streaming]] platform owned by BIGO Technology based in Singapore,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/av/business-49238069/why-young-indians-are-live-streaming-on-social-media|title=Why young Indians are live streaming on social media?|date=5 August 2019|work=[[BBC News]]|language=en-UK}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tiktok-india-analysis/video-app-tiktoks-india-download-ban-worries-wider-tech-industry-idUSKCN1RT1MX|title=Video app TikTok's India download ban worries wider tech industry|date=17 April 2019|work=[[Reuters]]|language=en-UK}}</ref> which was founded in 2014 by David Li and Jason Hu. As of 2019, Bigo Technology is owned by JOYY.<ref>{{Cite web|title=China's YY eyes overseas live streaming with $1.45B Bigo buyout|url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/04/yy-buys-out-bigo/|access-date=2 July 2020|website=TechCrunch|date=5 March 2019|language=en-US|archive-date=9 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230409055339/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/04/yy-buys-out-bigo/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=YY Announces Completion of Acquisition of Bigo|url=https://ir.yy.com/news-releases/news-release-details/yy-announces-completion-acquisition-bigo|access-date=5 July 2020|website=ir.yy.com|language=en|archive-date=30 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630174519/https://ir.yy.com/news-releases/news-release-details/yy-announces-completion-acquisition-bigo|url-status=dead}}</ref> <br />
<br />
Viewers are able to support their favorite [[live streaming|broadcaster]]s with in-app gifts,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2019/01/25/health/common-sense-2019-apps-partner/index.html|title=Apps you've never heard of that your teen is already using|date=25 January 2019|work=[[CNN]]|language=en-US}}</ref> and some popular broadcasters use the app as a full-time employment.{{Citation needed|date=February 2022}} Bigo owns [[Likee]], the short video creation and sharing app.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tiktok-india-analysis/video-app-tiktoks-india-download-ban-worries-wider-tech-industry-idUSKCN1RT1MX|title=Video app TikTok's India download ban worries wider tech industry|date=April 17, 2019|work=[[Reuters]]|language=en-UK}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.asianage.com/technology/in-other-news/130819/likee-launches-independence-day-campaign-for-indians-across-the-globe.html|title=Likee launches Independence Day campaign for Indians across the globe|date=13 Aug 2019|work=[[The Asian Age]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
David Li was a journalist prior to entering the technology industry, and Jason Hu had worked for many technology companies before the creation of Bigo Technology. In 2014, Bigo was founded in [[Singapore]].{{cn|date=July 2021}} In March 2019, Bigo was acquired by JOYY Inc.<ref>{{Cite news |title=YY completes Bigo acquisition to expand overseas reach |url=https://technode.com/2019/03/05/yy-completes-bigo-acquisition-to-expand-overseas-reach/ |work=Technode}}</ref><br />
<br />
In November 2019, monthly active users of the company's apps reached over 350 million globally.<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 April 2020 |title=Singapore-based Likee, led by a former factory worker, is gaining ground on TikTok |url=https://www.scmp.com/tech/apps-social/article/3080491/singapore-based-likee-led-former-factory-worker-gaining-ground |website=South China Morning Post}}</ref> In July 2020, Pakistan temporarily [[internet in Pakistan|banned]] Bigo, and warned [[TikTok]] and [[YouTube]] over immoral, obscene, and vulgar content. The [[Pakistan Telecommunications Authority]] expressed concerns about the potential negative impact on society, particularly on youth.<ref>{{cite news |date=21 July 2020 |title=Pakistan Warns Chinese TikTok, Blocks Singaporean Bigo Live App |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/07/pakistan-warns-chinese-tiktok-blocks-singaporean-bigo-live-app/ |publisher=TheDiplomat}}</ref> The [[Pakistan Telecommunication Authority]] announced the lifting of the ban on 30 July 2020 following discussions and reassurances regarding content regulation.<ref>[https://enmobile.prnasia.com/releases/apac/pakistan-telecommunication-authority-pta-lifts-ban-on-bigo-live-287008.shtml Pakistan Telecommunication Authority lifts ban on Bigo Live] ''PR Newswire'', 1 August 2020</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2020, Bigo Live announced a partnership with [[The Trevor Project]], the world's largest [[suicide prevention]] and crisis intervention organization for [[LGBTQ]] youth.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Today's News |url=https://www.dcpsych.org/todays-news?rkey=20201201NY07530&filter=9054&Bigo%20Live%20Becomes%20Official%20Corporate%20Partner%20to%20The%20Trevor%20Project%20&amp;%20Commits%20$10,000%20to%20Crisis%20Intervention%20for%20LGBTQ%20Young%20People |access-date=10 February 2021 |website=www.dcpsych.org}}</ref><br />
<br />
On 13 June 2021, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of [[Bangladesh Police]] arrested five people, including Bigo's [[Operations management|Operation Manager]], a Chinese national, in connection with allegations of [[money laundering]] and [[blackmail]]. They were charged under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, [[Digital Security Act]] and Pornography Prevention Act.<ref>{{cite news |title=Likee, Bigo Live apps used to launder over Tk100cr: CID |url=https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/crime/likee-bigo-live-apps-used-launder-over-tk100cr-cid-260359#.YMYxDDD-5cI.facebook |work=The Business Standard |date=13 June 2021 |language=en}}</ref> Bigo has been actively cooperating with local authorities to address and resolve these issues, reaffirming its commitment to compliance and community standards.<br />
<br />
On 8 December 2024, the [[New York Times]] published a report on the use of live streaming apps "downloaded from Apple and Google" for paid sexual exploitation of children, including Bigo Live. In a statement to the Times, the company said it had taken "appropriate action" on the cases mentioned in the Times article, "including account suspension and content removal". Bigo said it was "deeply committed to protecting user safety".<ref>{{cite news |title=On These Apps, the Dark Promise of Mothers Sexually Abusing Children |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/07/us/child-abuse-apple-google-apps.html |date=8 December 2024 |access-date=12 December 2024 |last=Keller |first=Michael H. |work=The New York Times}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly afterwards, Bigo Live was removed from the [[App Store (Apple)|Apple App Store]] and [[Google Play|Google Play Store]], though the app continues to function on phones on which it was already installed.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Bigo Live Removed from App Store and Google Play |date=2024-12-09 |url=https://pgyer.com/apk/article/news/bigo-live-removed-from-app-store-and-google-play |access-date=2024-12-12 |work=Pyger APKhub}}</ref><br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
*{{Official website}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:2016 software]]<br />
[[Category:2016 introductions]]<br />
[[Category:Social media companies]]<br />
[[Category:IOS software]]<br />
[[Category:Mobile software]]<br />
[[Category:Video software]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Deepan_Budlakoti&diff=1263811458Deepan Budlakoti2024-12-18T19:48:41Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Added internal links</p>
<hr />
<div>{{use dmy dates|date=July 2021}}<br />
'''Deepan Budlakoti''' (born 17 October 1989) is an Ottawa-born man best known for Canada's refusal to acknowledge him as a citizen.<ref name=cbc /> His case, supported by numerous human rights organizations and a modest mobilization of public support, was heard by several Canadian courts, and has captured domestic and international attention. Since Budlakoti does not hold any citizenship,<ref>{{cite news|work=Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/editorials/a-wrongful-deportation/article6605773/|title=Editorial|date=20 December 2012}}</ref> his case raises questions of citizenship, [[statelessness]] and deportation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ccla.org/2014/03/14/ccla-presents-deepan-budlakoti-statelessness-citizenship/|title=Deepan Budlakoti, Statelessness & Citizenship|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150506010227/http://ccla.org/2014/03/14/ccla-presents-deepan-budlakoti-statelessness-citizenship/|publisher=Canadian Civil Liberties Association|date=March 2014|archivedate=6 May 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Background==<br />
Budlakoti was born on 17 October 1989 in [[Ottawa]], [[Ontario]], to Indian nationals who had been employed at the Indian High Commission.<ref>[http://decisions.fct-cf.gc.ca/fc-cf/decisions/en/item/73390/index.do ''Budlakoti v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration)''], 2014 FC 855, para 2, 17, 25.<br>- {{cite web|url=https://ccla.org/ccla-calls-for-recognition-of-deepan-budlakotis-citizenship/|title=CCLA calls for recognition of Deepan Budlakoti's citizenship|publisher=Canadian Civil Liberties Association|date=27 February 2015|access-date=21 July 2017|archive-date=6 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806091052/https://ccla.org/ccla-calls-for-recognition-of-deepan-budlakotis-citizenship/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Section 3(2) of the ''Citizenship Act'' states that children of diplomats and their staff, when born in Canada, are not entitled to Canadian citizenship.<ref>Government of Canada ''[http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-29/page-2.html#docCont Citizenship Act]''</ref> The [[Government of Canada]] alleged that, at the time of Budlakoti's birth, his parents were working as cleaning staff at the High Commission;<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/would-be-deportee-pleads-im-a-canadian/article4255287/ |title=Would-be deportee pleads: 'I'm a Canadian'|work=Globe and Mail|author=Koring, Paul|date=23 October 2011}}</ref> Budlakoti contended that his parents had left that job several months before.<ref>2014 FC 855, para 20.</ref> After his birth, Budlakoti was issued with an Ontario birth certificate and subsequently two Canadian passports.<ref>2014 FC 855, para 2.<br>- {{cite news|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/stateless-ottawa-born-man-loses-bid-for-citizenship|title='Stateless' Ottawa-born man loses bid for citizenship|work=[[Ottawa Citizen]]|last=Duffy|first=Andrew|date=10 September 2014|access-date=21 July 2017}}</ref> In 1992, Budlakoti's parents applied for [[Permanent residency in Canada|permanent residency]], listing Budlakoti as a dependent. The application was accepted.<ref>[http://decisions.fca-caf.gc.ca/fca-caf/decisions/en/109963/1/document.do ''Budlakoti v Canada (Minister of Citizenship and Immigration)''], 2015 FCA 139, para 4.</ref><br />
<br />
In late 2010, Budlakoti was convicted for weapons trafficking, firearm possession and cocaine trafficking, and sentenced to three years in prison.<ref>2014 FC 855, para 8.</ref><ref name=cbc /> The Justice for Deepan Support Committee, which worked with Budlakoti to raise awareness about the case, raised money for escalating legal fees, and put political pressure on elected officials to reverse the decision, contends that Budlakoti was [[Entrapment|entrapped]] by an undercover police officer, and that Budlakoti pleaded guilty due to the high [[Attorney's fee|legal fees]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Deepan's case gets attention in Europe|publisher=Justice for Deepan|url=http://www.justicefordeepan.org/|access-date=28 January 2016|archive-date=5 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205030513/http://www.justicefordeepan.org/|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />
<br />
While Budlakoti was in prison, [[Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship|Citizenship and Immigration Canada]] determined that he was not and had never been a Canadian citizen, and thus was inadmissible to Canada on the basis of section 36(1) of the ''[[Immigration and Refugee Protection Act]]'',<ref name=cbc /><ref>2014 FC 855, para 4.</ref> and issued a removal order accordingly.<ref>2014 FC 855, para 9.</ref> Budlakoti was released in 2012 while awaiting judicial review of the [[Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada]]'s decision. As a result, he lost all other corresponding Canadian identification, leaving him unable to work, access health care, exercise the full extent of his mobility rights, or live alone.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rabble.ca/news/2015/03/canada-made-deepan-budlakoti-stateless-now-it-denying-him-health-care|title=Canada made Deepan Budlakoti stateless, Now it is denying him health care|website=Rabble|date=5 March 2015|first1=Nikki|last1=Bozinoff|first2=Ritika|last2=Goel|first3=Marcella|last3=Jones|first4=Faraz Vahid|last4=Shahid}}</ref><br />
<br />
==At trial==<br />
In June 2014, Budlakoti's case was heard before the [[Federal Court (Canada)|Federal Court]]. He argued that his [[Section Seven of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms|section 7]] ''[[Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms|Charter]]'' rights to life, liberty and security of the person were violated. In fall 2014, the Federal Court dismissed his application for [[judicial review]], holding that "[t]he fact that passports were issued to the Applicant is not, in this case, determinative of citizenship".<ref>2014 FC 855, para 39.</ref> The court found that issuing a declaration of citizenship would fall outside the court's authority.<ref>2014 FC 855 at 29.</ref> The court dismissed Budlakoti's section 7 ''Charter'' argument, finding that "denial of citizenship is not synonymous with deportation",<ref>2014 FC 855, para 46.</ref> and that "the denial of state funded health care does not violate s 7", ''per'' ''[[Chaoulli v Quebec (AG)]]''.<ref>2014 FC 855, para 47.</ref>{{needs update|date=January 2024}}<br />
<br />
Budlakoti appealed to the [[Federal Court of Appeal (Canada)|Federal Court of Appeal]], where the appeal was dismissed. The court held that he was not stateless, ''per'' the ''[[Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness]]'', since he could still "take steps to apply for citizenship in India and in Canada"<ref>2015 FCA 139, paras 22–23.</ref> through the general citizenship application process, or by invoking the "special and unusual hardship" rule in the ''Citizenship Act''.<ref>2015 FCA 149, paras 52–54</ref> The court found that he had not yet availed himself of either of these procedures in Canada or in India.<ref>2015 FCA 139, paras 55, 69.</ref> Budlakoti argued that the then-[[Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship|Minister of Citizenship]], [[Chris Alexander (politician)|Chris Alexander]], was biased, as a spokesperson for Alexander had previously denounced Budlakoti as a "criminal".<ref>{{cite news|last=Keung|first=Nicholas|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/09/18/canadianborn_man_faces_deportation.html|title=Canadian-born man faces deportation|work=[[Toronto Star]]|date=18 September 2013|access-date=29 January 2016}}</ref> The court rejected this argument, finding that if Budlakoti applied under the "special and unusual hardship" rule, the hardship would be "determinative... [and] neither the Minister nor his officials have commented on that issue".<ref>2015 FCA 139, para 66.</ref><br />
<br />
A request for leave for appeal to the [[Supreme Court of Canada|Supreme Court]] was denied in January 2016.<ref name=cbc>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/deepan-budlakoti-supreme-court-case-dismissed-1.3423725|title=Deepan Budlakoti's appeal to be declared Canadian citizen dismissed by Supreme Court|website=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]]|date=28 January 2016|access-date=28 January 2016}}<br>- {{cite web|url=http://scc-csc.lexum.com/scc-csc/news/en/item/5156/index.do|title=Judgments in Leave Applications|date=28 January 2016|website=[[LexUM]]|access-date=29 January 2016}}</ref>{{needs update|date=January 2024}}<br />
<br />
==Issues==<br />
This case is unique and has attracted international attention. [[Amnesty International]] has condemned the Canadian government's actions,<ref name=amnesty>{{cite web|url=http://www.amnesty.ca/blog/nationality-statelessness-and-the-case-of-deepan-budlakoti|last=Neve|first=Alex|publisher=[[Amnesty International]]|title=Nationality, Statelessness and the Case of Deepan Budlakoti|date=9 March 2015|access-date=28 January 2016|archive-date=6 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160106131853/http://amnesty.ca/blog/nationality-statelessness-and-the-case-of-deepan-budlakoti|url-status=dead}}</ref> arguing that, as a signatory to the [[United Nations]] ''[[Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness]]'',<ref>{{cite web|publisher=United Nations|url=https://treaties.un.org/pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=V-4&chapter=5&lang=en |title=Signatories to the International Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325153730/https://treaties.un.org/pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=V-4&chapter=5&lang=en |archivedate=25 March 2015 }}</ref> Canada should "act to reduce statelessness and uphold the right to a nationality".<ref name=amnesty /><br />
<br />
==Criminal activity==<br />
On 8 November 2017, charges were announced against Deepan Budlakoti and five others, for gun trafficking, possessing the proceeds of crime, breaching a gun ban and drug trafficking. The investigation was conducted by the [[Ontario Provincial Police]]'s organized crime enforcement bureau and Ottawa and Gatineau police.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/seven-month-gun-drug-running-probe-nets-man-in-high-profile-fight-for-citizenship|title=Seven-month gun, drug-running probe suspects includes man in high-profile fight for citizenship|first=Megan|last=Gillis|date=9 November 2017|work=The Ottawa Citizen}}</ref>{{needs update|date=January 2024}}<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*[http://www.justicefordeepan.org/ "Justice for Deepan website"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205030513/http://www.justicefordeepan.org/ |date=5 February 2016 }}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Budlakoti, Deepan}}<br />
[[Category:1989 births]]<br />
[[Category:Living people]]<br />
[[Category:People from Ottawa]]<br />
[[Category:Canadian people of Indian descent]]<br />
[[Category:Stateless people]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Junction_(2024_film)&diff=1251752649Junction (2024 film)2024-10-17T22:03:12Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Film by Bryan Greenberg}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2024}}<br />
{{Infobox film<br />
| image = Junction 2024 film poster.jpg<br />
| caption = Release poster<br />
| director = [[Bryan Greenberg]]<br />
| producer = {{Plainlist|<br />
* [[Chad A. Verdi]]<br />
* [[Aaron Kaufman (producer)|Aaron Kaufman]]<br />
* Anthony Gudas<br />
* Michelle Verdi<br />
* Chad Verdi Jr.<br />
* Paul Luba<br />
* Bryan Greenberg<br />
* Garrett Bates<br />
}}<br />
| writer = Bryan Greenberg<br />
| starring = {{Plainlist|<br />
* Bryan Greenberg<br />
* [[Ashley Madekwe]] <br />
* [[Jamie Chung]]<br />
* [[Sophia Bush]]<br />
* [[Griffin Dunne]]<br />
}}<br />
| music = John Graney<br />
| cinematography = Harlan Bosmajian<br />
| editing = Tania Khodakivska<br />
| studio = {{Plainlist|<br />
* Verdi Productions<br />
* Public School Productions<br />
* Hyperborea Pictures<br />
* La Salle Productions<br />
}}<br />
| distributor = VMI Releasing<br />
| released = {{Film date|2024|1|26}}<br />
| runtime = 97 minutes<ref>{{cite web|last=Coughlan|first=Marisa|title=Bryan Greenberg's Directorial Debut Tackles the Opioid Crisis|date=January 25, 2024|website=[[Vanity Fair (magazine)|Vanity Fair]]|url=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/bryan-greenbergs-directorial-debut-tackles-the-opioid-crisis|accessdate=January 28, 2024}}</ref><br />
| country = United States<br />
| language = English<br />
| budget = <br />
| gross = <br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''''Junction''''' is a 2024 American [[thriller film]] written and directed by [[Bryan Greenberg]] and starring Greenberg, [[Ryan Eggold]], [[Jamie Chung]], [[Sophia Bush]] and [[Griffin Dunne]]. It is Greenberg's feature directorial debut.<ref name=lang/><ref name=ntim>{{cite web|last=Ntim|first=Zac|title='Junction' Trailer: First Look At Opioid Crisis Drama Starring Sophia Bush & Jamie Chung|date=April 10, 2023|website=Deadline Hollywood|url=https://deadline.com/video/junction-trailer-opioid-crisis-drama-sophia-bush-jamie-chung/|accessdate=January 22, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|last=Vlessing|first=Etan|title=Sophia Bush, Jamie Chung Join Bryan Greenberg's 'Junction' Opioid Drama (Exclusive)|date=April 18, 2022|magazine=The Hollywood Reporter|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/sophia-bush-jamie-chung-junction-opioid-drama-1235131486/|accessdate=January 22, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|last=Brew|first=Caroline|title=Verdi Productions Gears Up to Release 'Junction,' 'Knockout Blonde,' Heather Graham's 'Chosen Family' in 2024 (EXCLUSIVE)|date=September 26, 2023|magazine=Variety|url=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/verdi-productions-2024-slate-knockout-heather-graham-chosen-family-1235735784/amp/|accessdate=January 24, 2024}}</ref><br />
<br />
''Junction'' was released on 26 January 2024.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt9046896|title=Junction (2024)|access-date=5 April 2024|website=[[Box Office Mojo]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Plot==<br />
<br />
the modern-day opioid crisis in America from three different perspectives<br />
<br />
{{no plot|date=April 2024}}<br />
<br />
==Cast==<br />
*[[Bryan Greenberg]] as Michael<ref name=wu/><br />
*[[Josh Peck]] as Jeff<br />
*Kea Ho as Kaya<br />
*[[Griffin Dunne]] as Lawrence<br />
*[[Sophia Bush]] as Allison<br />
*[[Jamie Chung]] as Katie<br />
*[[Michaela Conlin]] as Lisa<br />
*[[Hill Harper]] as Ablees<br />
*[[Ashley Madekwe]] as Mary<br />
*[[Ryan Eggold]] as Jacob<br />
*[[Dascha Polanco]] as Dana<br />
*[[Dash Mihok]] as Matt<br />
*[[Geoff Stults]]<br />
*[[Eddie Kaye Thomas]] as Rodgers<br />
*[[Hannah Dunne]] as Dez<br />
*[[Yara Martinez]] as Nurse Kat<br />
*Tom DeNucci as Vincent<br />
*[[Eric Lutes]] as Hicks<br />
*Nichelle Hines as Sharon<br />
*Gianna Collier as Yvette<br />
<br />
==Production==<br />
In May 2022, it was announced that Peck and Ho were cast in the film.<ref name=lang>{{cite magazine|last=Lang|first=Brent|title=Josh Peck, Kea Ho Join Opioid Crisis Drama 'Junction' (EXCLUSIVE)|date=May 12, 2022|magazine=Variety|url=https://variety.com/2022/film/news/josh-peck-kea-ho-opioid-crisis-junction-1235265124/|accessdate=January 22, 2024}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Principal photography]] took place in [[Rhode Island]].<ref name=ntim/><ref name=wu/><ref>{{cite news|last=Parker|first=Paul Edward|title='Junction,' movie shot and produced in RI, opens Friday. Here's how to see it.|date=January 24, 2024|newspaper=The Providence Journal|url=https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2024/01/24/how-to-watch-junction-a-bryan-greenberg-film-shot-in-ri/72327715007/|accessdate=January 28, 2024}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Release==<br />
In January 2024, it was announced that VMI Releasing acquired the United States distribution rights to the film, which was initially scheduled to be released in theaters and on [[video on demand|VOD]] on January 24, 2024.<ref name=wu>{{cite magazine|last=Wu|first=Valerie|title=Chad A. Verdi's VMI Releasing Acquires Bryan Greenberg Drama 'Junction' Starring Josh Peck, Sophia Bush (EXCLUSIVE)|date=January 16, 2024|magazine=Variety|url=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/vmi-releasing-acquires-junction-bryan-greenberg-1235873950/|accessdate=January 22, 2024}}</ref> The release date was changed to January 26, 2024.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Simpson|first=Kaitlin|title=Bryan Greenberg's Struggle With Opioids Inspired His Involvement With 'Junction' (Exclusive)|date=January 23, 2024|magazine=Us Weekly|url=https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/bryan-greenberg-says-his-struggle-with-opioids-inspired-junction/|accessdate=January 24, 2024}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
{{expand section|date=April 2024}}<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* {{IMDb title|9046896}}<br />
* {{rotten-tomatoes|junction_2024}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:American thriller films]]<br />
[[Category:Films shot in Rhode Island]]<br />
[[Category:2024 thriller films]]<br />
[[Category:2020s English-language films]]<br />
[[Category:English-language thriller films]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Centre_for_Addiction_and_Mental_Health&diff=1219335578Centre for Addiction and Mental Health2024-04-17T03:53:14Z<p>Brandon.macuser: #article-section-source-editor</p>
<hr />
<div>{{distinguish|text = the [[Canadian Mental Health Association]] (CMHA)}}<br />
{{Infobox hospital<br />
| Name = {{nowrap|Centre for Addiction and Mental Health}}<br />
| Org/Group = <!-- optional --><br />
| Image = camh_queen_st.jpg<br />
| Caption = CAMH Queen Street Site.<br />
| Logo = Centre_for_Addiction_and_Mental_Health.svg<br />
| Logo Size = 200px<br />
| Location = [[Toronto]]<br />
| State = Ontario<br />
| Country = Canada<br />
| HealthCare = Medicare<br />
| Type = Teaching<br />
| Standards = <!-- optional if no national standards --><br />
| Emergency = Yes<br />
| Affiliation = [[University of Toronto]]<br />
| Speciality = Psychiatric<br />
| Beds = 493<br />
| Funding = Government<br />
| Founded = 1998<br />
| former-names = Queen Street Mental Health Centre<br>Clarke Institute of Psychiatry<br>Addiction Research Foundation<br>Donwood Institute<br />
| Closed = <!-- optional --><br />
| Website = {{url|https://www.camh.ca}}<br />
| Wiki-Links = <!-- optional --><br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Centre for Addiction and Mental Health''' ('''CAMH''', pronounced {{IPAc-en|k|ae|m|.|ei|tS}} {{respell|KAM|aytch}}, {{lang-fr|'''Centre de toxicomanie et de santé mentale'''}}<!--French is federally one of Canada's two official languages, a recognized minority language in Ontario, and one of two languages on the centre's sign: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-mental-crisis-1.5623907-->) is a [[psychiatric hospital|psychiatric]] [[teaching hospital]] located in [[Toronto]] and ten community locations throughout the province of [[Ontario]], Canada. It reports being the largest research facility in Canada for mental health and addictions. The hospital was formed in 1998 from the amalgamation of four separate institutions – the Queen Street Mental Health Centre, the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, the Addiction Research Foundation, and the Donwood Institute.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://peel.cioc.ca/record/CMH0002 |title=Centre for Addiction and Mental Health |publisher=Peel.cioc.ca |date=2019-05-09 |access-date=2020-02-20}}</ref> It is Canada's largest mental health teaching hospital, and the only stand-alone psychiatric emergency department in Ontario.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4959156-camh-officially-opens-new-7-million-psychiatric-emergency-department/|title=CAMH officially opens new $7-million psychiatric emergency department|first=Hilary|last=Caton|date=November 4, 2014|website=Toronto.com}}</ref> CAMH has 90 distinct clinical services across inpatient, outpatient, day treatment, and partial hospitalization models. CAMH has been the site of major advancements in psychiatric research, including the discovery of the [[Dopamine receptor D2]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.the-scientist.com/uncategorized/drugs-from-d2-43570 |title=Drugs from D2 &#124; The Scientist Magazine® |publisher=The-scientist.com |access-date=2020-02-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
CAMH was formed from the 1998 merger of the Queen Street Mental Health Centre with the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, Addiction Research Foundation, and Donwood Institute.<ref name="scrivener2007">Scrivener, Leslie (February 25, 2007). [https://www.thestar.com/printArticle/185477 Breakout at the asylum.] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607175036/http://www.thestar.com/printArticle/185477 |date=2011-06-07 }} ''[[Toronto Star]]''</ref><br />
<br />
===Queen Street Mental Health Centre===<br />
[[File:TorontoAsylumQueenStOssington.jpg|thumb|right|Queen Street Asylum for the Insane, 1910]]<br />
The Provincial Lunatic Asylum opened on January 26, 1850. It was subsequently renamed Asylum for the Insane, then Hospital for the Insane, then Ontario Hospital (1919), and then the Queen Street Mental Health Centre (1966). It had also been called the Toronto Lunatic Asylum and 999 Queen Street West.<ref name="everett2000">Everett, Barbara (2000). ''A Fragile Revolution: Consumers and Psychiatric Survivors Confront the Power of the Mental Health System''. Wilfrid Laurier University Press. {{ISBN|0-88920-342-3}}</ref><ref name="torontoist">{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Corey |url=http://torontoist.com/2015/02/the-ongoing-evolution-of-camh/ |title=The Ongoing Evolution of CAMH |publisher=Torontoist.com |date=2015-02-05 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
<br />
The original buildings were constructed in a series of rigid lines and sharp angles, consistent with the belief at the time that orderly physical structure would facilitate orderly mental states for the patients. High walls segregated the patients from the community, establishing a long-standing stigma about the facility.<ref name = "torontoist"/><br />
<br />
The Queen Street Site of CAMH contained the Samuel A. Malcolmson Lecture Theatre, named for the site's Chief Psychiatrist and Clinical Director of Forensics. In 2009, however, Malcolmson was subject to a disciplinary hearing of Ontario's College of Physicians and Surgeons, following that he sexually abused a patient and fathered a child with her. Malcomson pleaded "no contest" and resigned his license to practice. The lecture hall was renamed the Queen Street Auditorium.<ref>{{cite web|date=June 18, 2009| title=CAMH theatre renamed after scandal|publisher=National Post|url=http://www.canada.com/story.html?id=17cd7fd4-32e5-4e56-abad-4126dfa691e1}}{{dead link|date=November 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Michelle|last= Mandel|date=June 12, 2009|publisher= Toronto Sun|url=http://www.torontosun.com/news/columnists/michele_mandel/2009/06/12/9771256-sun.html|title=Michele Mandel Column}}</ref><br />
<br />
Reforms were made after a series of deaths at the Queen Street Mental Health Centre and newspaper accounts of involuntary drug treatment, electroshock therapy, and prison-like conditions.<ref name="goar2008">{{cite web|last=Goar|first= Carol|date=June 13, 2008|archive-date=16 April 2024|archive-url=https://archive.ph/kn4TC|url= https://www.thestar.com/opinion/mental-health-progress-and-pain/article_6a4ceb6e-6b5e-5221-b84b-11b687037adf.html |title= Mental health progress and pain|publisher=[[Toronto Star]]}}</ref><ref name="straightjacket">{{cite book|date=January 1, 2002|title=No straitjacket required: a growing and vocal group of psychiatric survivors argues that diagnosing mental disorders is just a way to stifle social dissent ... |publisher=This Magazine}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Clarke Institute of Psychiatry===<br />
[[Image:CAMH Toronto6520.jpg|right|thumb|200px|[[Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (College Street site)|CAMH College Street site]]]]<br />
The institute was founded in 1966 and officially opened by Ontario Premier [[John P. Robarts]]. It was named the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, after [[Charles Kirk Clarke]], a pioneer in mental health in Canada. The institute took over the clinical, teaching, and research functions of the Toronto Psychiatric Hospital, located at 2 Surrey Place, which opened in 1925 under [[Clarence B. Farrar]]. The Institute served as the main psychiatry teaching hospital for the University of Toronto and was the headquarters for the Department of Psychiatry in the Faculty of Medicine. The first Medical and Executive Director of the Clarke was Charles Roberts, and the first Psychiatrist-in-Chief (and Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto) was Aldwyn B. Stokes. When Stokes retired in 1967, the administration was reorganized, and [[Robin Hunter (psychiatrist)|Robin Hunter]] became Medical Director and Psychiatrist-in-Chief.<ref>{{cite book|publisher=Archives Association of Ontario|title=Fonds – Toronto Psychiatric Hospital/Clarke Institute of Psychiatry|url=http://www.archeion.ca/toronto-psychiatric-hospital-clarke-institute-of-psychiatry-fonds}}</ref><br />
<br />
Fredrick H. Lowy served as Psychiatrist-in-Chief of the Clarke from 1974 until 1980, followed by Vivian Rakoff from 1980 to 1990, and Paul E. Garfinkel from 1990 until the Clarke's 1998 merger into CAMH.<ref name="psychiatry">{{cite web|publisher=University of Toronto Department of Psychiatry|title=About us|url=http://www.psychiatry.utoronto.ca/about/|access-date=2016-02-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160214212733/http://www.psychiatry.utoronto.ca/about/|archive-date=2016-02-14|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />
<br />
Upon its merger into CAMH in 1998, the Clarke building become known as the [[Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (College Street site)|CAMH College Street site]]. [[Conrad Black]] has been a generous supporter of the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry.<ref>{{cite news|agency=The Canadian Press|date=January 31, 2014|title= Conrad Black stripped of the Order of Canada|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/conrad-black-stripped-of-the-order-of-canada/article16644365/}}</ref><br />
<br />
==== Rent increase====<br />
In 2015, CAMH's facilities at the College St. site were put in jeopardy following notice of a rent increase from $1.2 million to $4 million per year, at the renewal of its 20-year lease.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jamie |last=Strashin|title=CAMH says crippling rent increase puts College Street location in jeopardy: Coun. Joe Cressy says property owner using 'bully tactics'|publisher=CBC News|date=July 7, 2015|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-says-crippling-rent-increase-puts-college-street-location-in-jeopardy-1.3140424}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Geoffrey |last=Vendeville|date=July 7, 2015|publisher=Toronto Star|title=Sudden rent hike puts CAMH College St. facility in jeopardy|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2015/07/07/sudden-rent-hike-puts-camh-college-st-facility-in-jeopardy.html}}</ref> CAMH valued its property at $25 million, whereas the hospital's landlord, [[Brookfield Asset Management]], valued it at $100 million. Brookfield turned down CBC's interview requests. A government arbitrator was appointed who valued the property at $55 million, yielding a rent increase that CAMH was reportedly able to pay.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|date=November 19, 2015|title=CAMH 24-hour College Street location will likely stay|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-stay-college-street-location-1.3326002}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Addiction Research Foundation===<br />
The Addiction Research Foundation (ARF), then named the Alcoholism Research Foundation was founded in 1949, when H. David Archibald, who had studied at the School of Alcohol Studies at [[Yale University]], was hired by the [[Liquor Control Board of Ontario]]. His mandate was to determine the scope of alcoholism in Ontario. He was named executive director when ARF opened and remained in that post until 1976. Focusing initially on outpatient treatment, their first facility was [[Brookside Hospital]] in 1951, expanding to branch offices and new locations in 1954, the same year they set up in-house research. In 1961, formally renamed the Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Research Foundation of Ontario, ARF expanded its mission to include drugs. In 1971, they expanded to a clinical teaching hospital called the Clinical Research and Treatment Institute. In 1978 ARF opened the School for Addiction Studies and expanded their international role in policy development and research. Following provincial hospital restructuring in the 1990s, ARF was folded in 1998 into CAMH.<ref name="blocker2003">Blocker JS, Fahey DM, Tyrrell IR. ''Alcohol and temperance in modern history: an international encyclopedia.'' ABC-CLIO 2003. {{ISBN|1-57607-833-7}} pp. 3–4.</ref><br />
<br />
===Donwood Institute===<br />
In 1946, [[Gordon Bell (physician)|R. Gordon Bell]] opened a clinic in his own home for people needing mental health services. There existed an Ontario statute allowing doctors to take up to four patients into their homes without a hospital license. To his surprise, his only patients all suffered from alcoholism. It soon became necessary to move to larger facilities. To expand capacity, Bell opened Shadow Brook, which operated from 1947 to 1954, and then the Bell Clinic, which operated from 1954 to 1966.<ref>{{cite book|url=http://www.archeion.ca/donwood-institute-fonds |title=Donwood Institute fonds - Archeion |publisher=Archeion.ca |date=1985-05-26 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> The Donwood Institute then opened in 1967,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://leasidelife.com/donwood-comes-back-to-camh/|title=Donwood comes back to CAMH|date=May 2, 2016}}</ref> with 47 beds and a 4-month waiting list in the 1980s. Still focused on [[Substance use disorder|substance use]], it claimed a 65% recovery rate for general population and an 85% recovery rate among physicians with addictions.<ref name="shilliday1983">{{cite journal | author = Shilliday Greg | date = May 1983 | title = The Donwood Institute: resort of last resort | url = http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/picrender.fcgi?artid=1875283&blobtype=pdf | journal = Can Med Assoc J | volume = 128 | issue = 10| pages = 1220–1221 | pmc = 1875283 | pmid=6839246}}</ref><br />
<br />
===CAMH Queen St. Site Redevelopment ===<br />
[[File:Bellgateway camh.jpg|thumb|right|alt=CAMH Queen St. Site, Bell Gateway Building|CAMH Queen St. Site, Bell Gateway Building]]<br />
[[File:CAMH intergenerational building.jpg|thumb|right|alt=CAMH Queen St. Site, Intergenerational Wellness Centre|CAMH Queen St. Site, Intergenerational Wellness Centre]]<br />
<br />
CAMH has been undergoing a three phase redevelopment centered at its Queen Street site, with four goals:<br />
1) Deliver a new model of care and provide a healthy environment that promotes recovery;<br />
2) Bring together the best research, clinical, education, health promotion, and policy experts in one place to change the future of mental health and addictions;<br />
3) Revitalize the City of Toronto by opening up their site and by creating an inclusive new nine-block neighbourhood that benefits all and,<br />
4) Change attitudes by breaking down barriers to eliminate the stigma of mental health.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.net/News_events/Redeveloping_the_Queen_Street_site/index.html |title=Redeveloping the Queen Street Site |publisher=CAMH |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> Phase 1A was undertaken by Eastern Construction and completed in 2008<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.canadianarchitect.com/features/mind-over-matter/|title=Mind Over Matter|publisher=Canadian Architect|access-date=21 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180122071857/https://www.canadianarchitect.com/features/mind-over-matter/|archive-date=22 January 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> and Phase 1B was undertaken by [[Carillion]] and completed in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/CAMH_redevelopment/redevelopment_updates/about_phase_1B/Pages/faqscommunityredevelopment.aspx|title=Phase 1B Redevelopment Project Questions & Answers|publisher=CAMH|access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref> Phase 1C is being undertaken by [[PCL Construction]] and is expected to be complete in 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://plenarygroup.com/projects/north-america/centre-for-addiction-and-mental-health-phase-1c|title=Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Phase 1C|publisher=Plenary|access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2008, CAMH announced the completion of four new buildings (forming Phase 1A of the project) to accommodate CAMH's Addiction and Mood & Anxiety Programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/CAMH_redevelopment/phase1A/Pages/default.aspx|title=Phase 1A: 2005-2008|publisher=CAMH|access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref><br />
<br />
The Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute was established with a $30 million donation in 2011 from Linda Campbell, Gaye Farncombe, and Susan Grange, each granddaughters of Canadian magnate [[Roy Thomson, 1st Baron Thomson of Fleet|Roy Thomson]] and nieces of [[Kenneth Thomson, 2nd Baron Thomson of Fleet|Ken Thomson]]. CAMH CEO, Catherine Zahn, said research on the brain is the most promising pathway to progress in mental illness research.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/camh-gets-monumental-30m-donation-for-research-centre-1.732526 |title=CAMH gets 'monumental' $30M donation for research centre &#124; CTV Toronto News |publisher=Toronto.ctvnews.ca |date=2011-11-28 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> Bell donated $10 million to CAMH in 2011, reportedly the largest corporate gift in Canada to mental illness.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=The Canadian Press|date=May 11, 2011|title= CAMH gets record $10M donation from Bell|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-gets-record-10m-donation-from-bell-1.1101049}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2012, CAMH announced the completion of three new buildings (forming Phase 1B of the project): the Bell Gateway Building for the central administration, a utilities and parking building, and the Intergenerational Wellness Centre which includes 12 new beds for youth ages 14–18.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|date=June 21, 2012|title=Toronto's 'new' Centre for Addiction and Mental Health opens|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-s-new-centre-for-addiction-and-mental-health-opens-1.1195031}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Margaret McCain]], the former lieutenant-governor of New Brunswick and widow of [[McCain Foods]] co-founder [[Wallace McCain]], donated $10 million to CAMH in 2012 to establish the Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth and Family Mental Health.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=The Canadian Press|date=April 25, 2012|title=Margaret McCain donates $10 million to CAMH|url=http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/margaret-mccain-donates-10-million-to-camh-1.801326}}</ref> In 2013, the Slaight Family donated to $50 million to health care institutions, of which CAMH received $10 million. The donation permitted the opening of a centre dedicated to identifying and treating early signs of mental illness in youth.<ref>{{cite web|first=Maryam |last=Shah|date=October 29, 2013|title=Slaight family donates $50M to hospitals|publisher= Toronto Sun|url=http://www.torontosun.com/2013/10/29/slait-family-donates-50m-to-hospitals}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2014, philanthropist and business executive Andrew Fass donated $1,000,000 to CAMH for the hospital to create a wellness program for its staff.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/million-dollar-gift-to-create-healthier-workplaces-1960542.htm |title=Million Dollar Gift to Create Healthier Workplaces |publisher=Marketwired.com |date=2014-10-23 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> In 2016, Fass withdrew his donation, saying that CAMH was unable to show how they were spending the money.<ref name = "global-2016-09-29">{{cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2973050/philanthropist-rescinds-1-million-donation-from-camh-citing-lack-of-transparency/ |title=Philanthropist rescinds $1 million donation from CAMH citing lack of transparency |publisher=Globalnews.ca |date=2016-09-29 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> The grant was to be used for CAMH's "Well@Work" program, an initiative to provide Canadian workplaces with training to identify risks of mental illness and strategies to support employees in need.<ref name = "star-2016-09-29">{{cite web|author=Sammy Hudes |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/09/29/camh-loses-1-million-donation-due-to-issues-of-accountability.html |title=CAMH loses $1 million donation due to 'issues of accountability' &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2016-09-29 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
<br />
CAMH opened the Emergency Department in 2014, funded by a $2.5 million private donation and a $4.2 million grant from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.<ref>{{cite web|first=Hilary |last=Caton|date=November 4, 2014|title= CAMH officially opens new $7-million psychiatric emergency department|publisher=Inside Toronto|url=http://www.insidetoronto.com/news-story/4959156-camh-officially-opens-new-7-million-psychiatric-emergency-department/}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2016, CAMH constructed a sweat lodge for [[Aboriginal peoples in Canada|Aboriginal]] patients in order to promote spiritual, physical, and emotional healing.<ref name = "cbc2016">{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/camh-bolsters-sweat-lodge-for-indigenous-clients-1.3651943 |title=CAMH bolsters treatment services for Aboriginal patients with sweat lodge - CBC News &#124; Indigenous |publisher=Cbc.ca |date=2016-06-24 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> Also in 2016, CAMH opened walk-in clinics for youth.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-youth-mental-health-clinics-1.3633921 |title=CAMH to open 3 youth mental health walk-in clinics in Toronto - Toronto - CBC News |publisher=Cbc.ca |date=2016-06-14 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2020, the eight-storey, 110 patient bed McCain Complex Care & Recovery Building and five-storey 125 patient bed Crisis & Critical Care Building and 24-hour psychiatric emergency department were opened.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/58717/ontario-building-a-modern-connected-and-comprehensive-mental-health-and-addictions-system|title=Ontario Newsroom|website=news.ontario.ca}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/11/26/a-vision-for-the-future-camh-unveils-new-emergency-department-therapeutic-recovery-complex.html|title=A vision for the future: CAMH unveils new emergency department, therapeutic recovery complex|date=November 26, 2020|website=thestar.com}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Research==<br />
CAMH reports being the largest research facility in Canada for mental health and addictions, including over 100 scientists over 150 research trainees. In the 2014-2015 fiscal year, CAMH received $44,384,230 in research funding and published more than 500 research articles.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=CAMH|title=Research facts and figures|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/research/about_research_at_CAMH/research_facts_and_figures/Pages/research_facts_and_figures.aspx}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Administration==<br />
Psychiatrist and Clarke Institute President Paul E. Garfinkel was appointed the first President and CEO of CAMH in 1998.<ref name = psychiatry/> He was followed by neurologist Catherine Zahn in 2009.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Globe & Mail|date=November 4, 2009|url=http://www.globeportfolio.ca/servlet/AppNoticeArticleHTMLTemplate?tf=GlobeInvestor/AppNotices/DisplayNotice.html&cf=GlobeInvestor/AppNotices/config-neutral.cfg&slug=Zahn&date=20091104|title=CAMH: Dr. Catherine Zahn, President and CEO}}</ref><br />
<br />
Upon CAMH's formation, Peter Catford was appointed vice president for Information Technology. In 2002, Catford outsourced the public hospital's computer needs to H.I. Next, a private company which Catford founded and co-owned. When the ''[[Toronto Star]]'' reported on what it deemed an apparent conflict of interest regarding the spending of public money, the hospital would not reveal how much it paid Catford or his company, nor would CAMH disclose any details of its contract with H.I. Next or what other firms bid on the work. Catford commented only that "I feel honoured to work with (CAMH) and I feel like it has been done ethically."<ref>{{cite web|author=David Bruser |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/2007/03/08/hospital_vps_deal_a_conflict_critic_says.html |title=Hospital VP's deal a conflict, critic says &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2007-03-08 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> In interviews with the ''Toronto Star'', Dev Chopra, executive vice-president of CAMH first said there was nothing inappropriate about Catford's role. "We got into it with our eyes open. There is no conflict."<ref>{{cite web|author=David Bruser |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/2007/03/10/hospital_vp_to_quit_in_conflict_concerns.html |title=Hospital VP to quit in 'conflict' concerns &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2007-03-10 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> However, Chopra later said there were "some optics from a conflict perspective" noting the hospital might revisit the issue that day. Catford left his CAMH position two days later, but the Star reported that hospital officials said changes were being considered months before the Star published its story about the issue.<ref>{{cite web|first=David |last=Bruser|date=March 10, 2007|title=Hospital VP to quit in 'conflict' concerns|publisher=Toronto Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/2007/03/10/hospital_vp_to_quit_in_conflict_concerns.html}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/opseu-calls-for-investigation-into-it-contract-at-camh-639347.htm |title=OPSEU Calls for Investigation Into IT Contract at CAMH |publisher=Marketwired.com |date=2007-03-08 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Criticisms ==<br />
CAMH's administration has come under criticism including from staff who report safety problems<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ctvnews.ca/health/camh-pleads-guilty-to-workplace-safety-charge-after-alleged-beating-of-nurse-1.2991678 |title=CAMH pleads guilty to workplace safety charge after alleged beating of nurse &#124; CTV News |publisher=Ctvnews.ca |date=2016-07-18 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> and from donors who withdrew their funding citing accountability problems.<ref>{{cite web|author=Sammy Hudes |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/10/16/camh-donor-says-more-transparency-needed-about-money.html |title=CAMH donor says more transparency needed about money &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2016-10-16 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><ref name="global-2016-09-29"/><br />
<br />
===David Healy Affair===<br />
Soon after CAMH was founded, its administration was embroiled in a scandal involving [[Eli Lilly and Company]], which donated $1.5 million to CAMH, and [[David Healy (psychiatrist)|David Healy]], a prominent critic of [[Prozac]], the widely used antidepressant manufactured by Eli Lilly. CAMH hired Healy to be the head of its Mood and Anxiety Program, but withdrew the job offer after hearing about Healy's views.<ref name = "Boseley">{{cite web|first=Sarah |last=Boseley|date=May 7, 2001|title=Bitter pill|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/education/2001/may/07/medicalscience.highereducation}}</ref><br />
<br />
CAMH aggressively recruited Healy, and CAMH Physician-in-Chief, David Goldbloom, offered Healy a job as the head of the Mood and Anxiety Program. Healy accepted and soon after gave a lecture in which he reiterated his views about Prozac increasing risk of suicide. A few days later, Goldbloom withdrew the job offer, saying "Essentially, we believe that it is not a good fit between you and the role as leader of an academic program in mood and anxiety disorders at the centre and in relation to the university….We do not feel your approach is compatible with the goals for development of the academic and clinical resource that we have."<ref name = Boseley/><br />
<br />
The decision caused an "uproar" among Canadian academics, with the Canadian Association of University Teachers calling CAMH actions "an affront to academic freedom in Canada."<ref name = Boseley/> Scientists from 13 countries, including Nobel laureates [[Julius Axelrod]] and [[Arvid Carlsson]], protested CAMH's actions<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Times Higher Education|date=September 28, 2001|title=Rejected lecturer is suing Toronto|url=https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/rejected-lecturer-is-suing-toronto/165048.article}}</ref> as did the Society for Academic Freedom and Scholarship (SAFS).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.safs.ca/issuescases/camh.html |title=Camh |access-date=2016-02-03 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160225170709/http://www.safs.ca/issuescases/camh.html |archive-date=2016-02-25 }}</ref><br />
<br />
Healy sued CAMH and the University of Toronto, alleging breach of contract, defamation, and denial of academic freedom. The lawsuit sought damages of $9.4 million, including $2.6 million from CAMH CEO Paul Garfinkel, and $1.4 million from the U of T Dean of Medicine.<ref>{{cite web|first=Larissa |last=Ruderman|title=Exclusive: Dr. David Healy interview|date=26 November 2001|publisher=The Varsity|url=http://thevarsity.ca/2001/11/26/exclusive-dr-david-healy-interview/}}</ref> The university distanced itself from CAMH: According to U of T President, Robert Birgeneau, "Everyone is trying to blame the university for something that happened at one of our hospitals."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/rejected-lecturer-is-suing-toronto/165048.article |title=Rejected lecturer is suing Toronto &#124; Times Higher Education (THE) |publisher=Times Higher Education |date=2018-01-11 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
<br />
The lawsuit was settled with Healy receiving an appointment as visiting professor as the University of Toronto. The president of the Canadian Association of University Teachers, Vic Catano, said "We see the settlement as a complete vindication for Dr. Healy."<ref>{{cite journal | author = Spurgeon David | year = 2002 | title = Psychiatrist settles dispute with Toronto University | journal = British Medical Journal | volume = 324 | issue = 7347| page = 1177 | pmc=1174757| doi = 10.1136/bmj.324.7347.1177/a }}</ref><br />
<br />
===Child Gender Identity Clinic===<br />
In 1975, psychiatrist Susan Bradley founded a clinic in CAMH to work with [[gender dysphoria|gender dysphoric]] children. Bradley collaborated for many years with psychologist [[Kenneth Zucker]], and they established the clinic as the largest [[gender identity]] service in Canada and an international center for research.<ref name = "Paterson">{{cite web|first=Tara |last=Paterson |date=February 21, 2015|publisher=National Post|url=http://news.nationalpost.com/life/as-trans-issues-become-mainstream-question-of-how-to-address-variant-gender-expression-comes-to-forefront|title=Life as trans issues become mainstream question of how to address variant gender expression comes to forefront}}</ref> They said that in their studies, 80% of the children grow out of the behavior.<ref name="brown2006">{{cite news | author = Brown, Patricia Leigh | date = December 2, 2006 | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/02/us/02child.html | title = Supporting Boys or Girls When the Line Isn't Clear | work = [[The New York Times]]}}</ref> They used different approaches with children than adolescents because they said that children were more likely to identify with their birth sex.<ref name = brown2006/><br />
<br />
Regarding adolescents, Zucker would "support a teenager or adult who wants to [[Transitioning (transgender)|transition]] using hormones and surgeries."<ref name = Paterson/> Regarding children, however, Zucker said, "We are trying to help a child feel more comfortable with the gender identity that matches their birth sex," and that they use a variety of techniques to "help a child think more flexibly" about their gender. According to a 2006 article in ''[[The New York Times]]'', Zucker did this by "encouraging same-sex friendships and activities like board games that move beyond strict gender roles."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Brown |first1=Patricia Leigh |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/02/us/02child.html?pagewanted=2 |title=Supporting Boys or Girls When the Line Isn't Clear |work=The New York Times |date=2 December 2006 |access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref> Zucker said that a child could be asked to make a list of pros and cons about being different genders so that the child realizes that "there are both good and not so good things about being a boy and being a girl."<ref name = Paterson/><br />
<br />
Zucker's approach was controversial and considered by some to be [[conversion therapy]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Erica |last=Lenti |date=25 June 2015 |title=CAMH Supports Bill 77 Despite Criticism of Controversial Gender Identity Clinic |publisher=Torontoist |url=http://torontoist.com/2015/06/camh-supports-bill-77-despite-criticism-of-controversial-gender-identity-clinic/}}</ref> In January 2015, members of Rainbow Health Ontario, a provincial health promotion and navigation organization, approached CAMH expressing their concerns regarding Zucker's clinic.<ref name="metro">{{cite news |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150320203815/http://metronews.ca/news/toronto/1315743/outcry-prompts-camh-to-review-its-controversial-treatment-of-trans-youth/ |archive-date=20 March 2015 |url=http://metronews.ca/news/toronto/1315743/outcry-prompts-camh-to-review-its-controversial-treatment-of-trans-youth/ |title=Outcry prompts CAMH to review its controversial treatment of trans youth |first=Jessica Smith |last=Cross |newspaper=Metro |publisher=Metro International |date=18 March 2015 |access-date=1 November 2022}}</ref><ref name="howthefight">{{cite news |last=Singal |first=Jesse |date=7 February 2016 |title=How the Fight Over Transgender Kids Got a Leading Sex Researcher Fired |url=https://www.thecut.com/2016/02/fight-over-trans-kids-got-a-researcher-fired.html |work=New York Magazine |access-date=30 October 2022}}</ref> Rainbow Health Ontario submitted a review of academic literature and clinical practices for [[transgender youth]], and expressed concern that the gender identity clinic was not following accepted practices.<ref name="ashley_2022_4">{{Cite book |title=Banning Transgender Conversion Practices: A Legal and Policy Analysis |last1=Ashley |first1=Florence |publisher=University of British Columbia Press |location=Vancouver, BC |date=2022 |isbn=978-0774866958 |page=4}}</ref> Others online linked the Gender Identity Clinic's practices to [[suicide]] of transgender youth caused by conversion therapy, and referenced the high-profile case of [[Leelah Alcorn]], a [[transgender]] teen from [[Ohio]].<ref name="howthefight"/> In February 2015, CAMH ordered an external review of its gender identity clinic for children and teens.<ref name="ubelacker_20150612">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ont-conversion-therapy-ban-may-see-some-gender-identity-clinics-change-approach/article24943976/ |title=Ont. conversion therapy ban may see some gender identity clinics change approach |website=The Globe and Mail |last1=Ubelacker |first1=Sheryl |date=12 June 2015 |access-date=1 November 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
In March 2015, the [[Ontario Provincial Parliament]] introduced the Affirming Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Act, aimed at banning conversion therapy practices.<ref name="metro"/> In June 2015, the legislation was passed unanimously by the provincial parliament.<ref name="globe_20150604">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ontario-passes-ndp-bill-to-ban-conversion-therapy-for-lgbtq-children/article24811878/ |title=Ontario passes NDP bill to ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ children |author=The Canadian Press |website=The Globe and Mail |date=4 June 2015 |access-date=1 November 2022}}</ref><ref name="ubelacker_20150612"/> The law made LGBT conversion therapy illegal to provide to minors, and removed it from public [[health insurance]] coverage for adults.<ref name="ubelacker_20150612"/> After the bill was passed into law, CAMH stated that they welcomed the unanimous support for the bill.<ref name="lenti_20150625">{{Cite web |url=https://torontoist.com/2015/06/camh-supports-bill-77-despite-criticism-of-controversial-gender-identity-clinic/ |title=CAMH Supports Bill 77 Despite Criticism of Controversial Gender Identity Clinic |website=Torontoist |last1=Lenti |first1=Erica |date=25 June 2015 |access-date=3 November 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
The external review noted numerous strengths of the clinic, but also described it as an insular entity with an approach dissimilar from other clinics and described it as being out of step with current best practices, including [[Standards of Care for the Health of Transsexual, Transgender, and Gender Nonconforming People#Version 7|WPATH SOC Version 7]]. They also raised concerns about clinicians asking age inappropriate questions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.transadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/GIC-Review-26Nov2015-TA1.pdf|title=External review of the Gender Identity Clinic of the child, youth and family services in the underserved populations program at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health|publisher=CAMH|date=2015-11-26|access-date=2019-09-12}}</ref> After the review, CAMH shut down the clinic and fired Zucker. [[Kwame McKenzie]], medical director of CAMH's child, youth, and family services, said "We want to apologize for the fact that not all of the practices in our childhood gender identity clinic are in step with the latest thinking."<ref>{{cite news|last1=Ubelacker|first1=Sheryl|title=CAMH to 'wind down' controversial gender identity clinic services|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/camh-to-wind-down-controversial-gender-identity-clinic-services/article27766580/|access-date=15 December 2015|agency=Canadian Press|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|date=December 15, 2015}}</ref> CAMH announced a process of consultation with community leaders to examine how best to offer care.<ref>{{cite news|title=CAMH to 'wind down' gender identity clinic after review of services|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-gender-identity-1.3366424?cmp=rss|access-date=December 15, 2015|agency=Canadian Press|publisher=CBC News|date=December 15, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
A petition of over 500 sexuality and gender diversity experts decried the change.<ref>{{cite web|first=Sheryl |last=Ubelacker |date=January 23, 2016 |title=Group protests closure of youth gender identity clinic at CAMH, director's removal|publisher=Global News|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2473568/group-protests-closure-of-youth-gender-identity-clinic-at-camh-directors-removal/}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vocativ.com/news/270004/shuttered-clinic-highlights-controversy-over-trans-children/|title=Shuttered clinic highlights controversy over trans children|publisher=Vocativ|access-date=2016-01-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130084732/http://www.vocativ.com/news/270004/shuttered-clinic-highlights-controversy-over-trans-children/|archive-date=2016-01-30|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2018, CAMH paid Zucker $586,000 and issued a public apology as part of a settlement.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-settlement-former-head-gender-identity-clinic-1.4854015|publisher=CBC|access-date=2018-12-21|title=CAMH reaches settlement with former head of gender identity clinic}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Forensics===<br />
CAMH's forensic department and its leadership have been the subject of criticism from Ontario judges and the public for issues including public safety,<ref name = city2015/> patient civil rights violations,<ref name = globemail/> and turning away patients ordered to CAMH by judges.<ref name = judgespush/> This culminated in Ontario Superior Court Justice Maureen Forestell who reportedly "tore a strip off of" CAMH for its actions. Graham Glancy, a forensic psychiatrist at the Maplehurst Correctional Complex accused CAMH of focusing too much on patients and treatments to enhance its international reputation, but at the expense of the less glamorous forensic patients. He added "Cities like Ottawa and London are better resourced but Toronto is terrible. It's a disgrace, really." Toronto defence counsel Chris Hynes also attributed the problems to the CAMH leadership, saying "CAMH front-line workers pay the price for decisions made by the centre's privatized board of directors."<ref name = judgespush>{{cite news |title=Judges push back against hospitals turning away mentally ill offenders |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/judges-push-back-against-hospitals-turning-away-mentally-ill-offenders/article1314387/ |newspaper=The Globe and Mail }}</ref><br />
<br />
====AWOL patients====<br />
One recurrent issue has been the number of violent or dangerous patients who escape custody from CAMH's forensic wards.<ref name = city2015>{{cite news |title=Alarming numbers of people walking out of CAMH |publisher=CTV News |url=http://www.citynews.ca/2015/09/11/video-alarming-numbers-of-people-walking-out-of-camh/}}</ref> After filing a freedom of information act request with the police, the ''[[Toronto Star]]'' reported that CAMH had nearly as many AWOLs as all other Toronto hospitals combined (2,060 and 2,371 for the period 2004 to 2014).<ref>{{cite news |last=Lauren |first=Pelley |date=11 September 2015 |title=More patients go missing at CAMH than any other Toronto hospital, say numbers |newspaper=Toronto Star |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2015/09/11/more-patients-go-missing-at-camh-than-any-other-toronto-hospital-say-numbers.html}}</ref><br />
<br />
One of the most widely reported incidents involved Thomas Brailsford, who was institutionalized at CAMH after beheading his mother and being deemed a "danger to himself and others." Brailsford took off from a taxicab on his way to a medical appointment, representing his second escape in a year.<ref name = "Courtney">{{cite news |first=Russ |last=Courtney |date= 5 February 2016 |title=CAMH says it has "tightened" procedures after mentally-ill killer bolted in September |publisher=Newstalk1010 |url=http://www.newstalk1010.com/news/2016/02/05/camh-says-it-has-tightened-procedures-after-mentally-ill-killer-bolted-in-september}}</ref><br />
<br />
In an interview with Toronto columnist Jerry Agar, CAMH's chief of forensic psychiatry, Sandy Simpson said "Clearly, we will be reviewing this carefully to look at how we assessed the risk in this case."<ref name = "Agar">{{cite news |first=Jerry |last=Agar |date=8 February 2016 |title=CAMH should disclose security measures |newspaper=Toronto Sun |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2016/02/08/camh-should-disclose-security-measures}}</ref> Kate Richards of CAMH media relations subsequently said "We have tightened aspects of these procedures and...We are confident that the changes implemented in this case have been effective."<ref name = Courtney/> Agar wrote that he has "been eager to have Simpson back on the radio show to discuss what measures have been put in place" but had not received any response. Five months later, CAMH told Agar "Dr. Simpson is not available for a follow-up interview."<ref name = Agar/><br />
<br />
In 2019, the Ontario government ordered a review of CAMH patient passes and privileges after a series of patient escapes from the secure forensic psychiatry units.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/2019/08/01/camh-will-share-its-review-of-ncr-patients-who-fled.html|title=Opinion &#124; CAMH will share its review of patients who fled the hospital grounds|date=August 1, 2019|website=thestar.com}}</ref> In one case, a not criminally responsible (NCR) patient who absconded the hospital later left the country by plane.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/12/18/camh-day-pass-system-installing-fences/|title=CAMH changing day pass system, installing fences after review of escaped patients - CityNews Toronto|website=toronto.citynews.ca}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Workplace safety ===<br />
In 2007, following a series of attacks on staff by patients, the [[Ministry of Labour (Ontario)|Ontario Ministry of Labour]] asked CAMH to develop a workplace violence and policy program. In 2008, the Ministry of Labour laid nine workplace safety charges against CAMH in response to allegations by staff that they had been attacked by patients.<ref name="Globe1">{{cite news | title = CAMH Hit With Nine Workplace Safety Charges | publisher = The Globe and Mail | date = November 26, 2008 | url = https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/camh-hit-with-nine-workplace-safety-charges/article663889/}}</ref> CAMH was fined $70,000 in 2009 for two attacks against nursing staff in 2007 and 2008.<ref>{{cite news | title = CAMH Fined for Failing to Protect Nurses | publisher = CBC News Toronto | date = August 14, 2009 | url = http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-fined-for-failing-to-protect-nurses-1.854911}}</ref> In 2014, the Ontario Ministry of Labour laid charges against CAMH for failing to protect workers from workplace violence following an attack earlier that year.<ref name="metronews1">{{cite web | title = Reports of Assaults and Violence Toward Nurses Rising, Statistics Show | publisher = Metro News | date = July 1, 2015 | url = http://www.metronews.ca/news/toronto/2015/07/01/reports-of-assaults-and-violence-toward-nurses-rising-statistics-show.html | access-date = January 15, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160127055315/http://www.metronews.ca/news/toronto/2015/07/01/reports-of-assaults-and-violence-toward-nurses-rising-statistics-show.html | archive-date = January 27, 2016 | url-status = dead }}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2014, the Ontario Ministry of Labour laid more charges against CAMH for failing to implement procedures to protect staff from workplace violence following another attack that year.<ref name="metronews1"/> The prosecution asked the court to send “a clear message” that the CAMH situation was unacceptable.<ref name="“star2016-07-18”">{{cite web | title = CAMH fined $80,000 after beating that left nurse 'beyond recognition' | date = July 18, 2016 | work = The Star | url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/07/18/camh-fined-80000-after-beating-that-left-nurse-beyond-recognition.html}}</ref> CAMH was found guilty and fined again. CAMH's Chief of Nursing, Rani Srivastava, said that CAMH accepted the court's decision adding that the violence had a “devastating impact” on “all of us at CAMH.”<ref name="“star2016-07-18”"/><br />
<br />
Three months later, another nurse was punched, kicked in the face, and dragged into a locked utility room where she was repeatedly kicked in the head, suffering fractures and nerve damage.<ref name = "cbc2016.10.25">{{cite news | title = Nurse suffers eye injury in assault at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health | publisher = CBC | date = October 25, 2016 | url = https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/centre-addiction-mental-health-nurse-assault-beating-1.3820968}}</ref> Vicki McKenna of the Ontario Nurses' Association reported that CAMH has not been taking part in government committees to improve workplace safety and called for CAMH senior management to be held personally responsible for the continued workplace violence. Rani Srivastava said that the incident was "completely unexpected," that CAMH is "saddened" and "shocked" by what happened, and that "any incident is one too many."<ref name = "cbc2016.10.25"/><br />
<br />
===Reporting failures===<br />
Simpson has also been criticized by the Ontario Review Board for secluding a patient for two months but not informing the board, as required. Simpson claimed that the regulation "was unclear" about whether CAMH had a duty to report what it was doing. The board disagreed, ruling against CAMH.<ref name = globemail>{{cite news |title=CAMH criticized for isolating patient without notification |newspaper= The Globe and Mail |url= https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/camh-criticized-for-isolating-patient-without-notification/article6734423}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Public policy statements==<br />
CAMH issues statements about local and provincial regulations on addictive behaviors.<br />
<br />
===Alcohol===<br />
CAMH policy opposes the privatization of alcohol sales, citing evidence that the increase in availability increases alcohol-related harms and associated costs. They supported that the Liquor Control Board of Ontario should maintain its monopoly on alcohol sales.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/influencing_public_policy/Documents/Submission_to_PACGA_2014-08-28.pdf|title=Submission to the Premier's Advisory Council on Government Assets: The role of the LCBO in reducing alcohol‐related harm in Ontario|publisher=CAMH}}</ref> CAMH referred to "the plan to allow the sale of VQA wines at farmers' markets across the province" as "cause for concern" because it would increase access to alcohol.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/influencing_public_policy/Documents/JointSubmission-VQAwine_in_farmers_markets_2014-03-21.pdf|title=Submission to the Ministry of the Attorney General: Proposed regulatory amendments to the Liquor Licence Act|publisher=CAMH}}</ref> Similarly, together with other health organizations, CAMH called for a provincial alcohol strategy, ahead of Ontario's plan to permit the sale of beer in grocery stores.<ref>{{cite news|first=Carly|last= Weeks|title=Why Canada needs a new alcohol strategy|publisher=The Globe and Mail|date=October 2, 2015|url= https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health/alongside-marijuana-debate-new-alcohol-strategy-needed/article26633423/}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Marijuana===<br />
In a 2014 policy document, CAMH expressed support for the legalization of marijuana with strict control regulations.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|date=October 9, 2014|title= CAMH calls for legalization of marijuana|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-calls-for-legalization-of-marijuana-1.2793460}}</ref> According to CAMH CEO, Catherine Zahn, "Only through legalization can we implement a public-health approach, treating cannabis use as a health issue and not one to be addressed through law enforcement and the court system. This is the approach we take with tobacco and alcohol. As with alcohol, a legal cannabis market can be regulated with controls that address risk factors associated with use".<ref>{{cite web|first=Catherine |last=Zahn|publisher=Ottawa Citizen|date=October 20, 2014|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/national/catherine-zahn-legalization-is-the-best-approach-to-cannabis-control|title=Legalization is the best approach to cannabis control}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Gambling===<br />
CAMH has opposed the expansion of Toronto's [[Woodbine Racetrack]]. In a policy statement, CAMH said increased availability of gambling results in increased harms and predicted that a large portion of any increased revenues from the racetrack would come from people with gambling problems.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/influencing_public_policy/Documents/CAMH_Submission_Executive_Committee_Woodbine_2015-06-30.pdf|title=Submission to the Toronto City Council Executive Committee: Expansion of gambling at Woodbine Racetrack|publisher=CAMH}}</ref><br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*{{Official website|https://www.camh.ca/}}<br />
<br />
{{Toronto hospitals}}<br />
{{Toronto teaching hospitals}}<br />
{{Coord|43.64455|-79.41761|region:CA-ON_type:landmark|display=title}}<br />
<br />
{{authority control}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mental health organizations in Canada]]<br />
[[Category:Health in Toronto]]<br />
[[Category:Transgender and medicine]]<br />
[[Category:Hospitals affiliated with the University of Toronto]]<br />
[[Category:Psychiatric hospitals in Ontario]]<br />
[[Category:Addiction and substance abuse organizations]]<br />
[[Category:Hospitals established in 1998]]<br />
[[Category:1998 establishments in Ontario]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Centre_for_Addiction_and_Mental_Health&diff=1219334826Centre for Addiction and Mental Health2024-04-17T03:46:23Z<p>Brandon.macuser: fixed link #article-section-source-editor</p>
<hr />
<div>{{distinguish|text = the [[Canadian Mental Health Association]] (CMHA)}}<br />
{{Infobox hospital<br />
| Name = {{nowrap|Centre for Addiction and Mental Health}}<br />
| Org/Group = <!-- optional --><br />
| Image = camh_queen_st.jpg<br />
| Caption = CAMH Queen Street Site.<br />
| Logo = Centre_for_Addiction_and_Mental_Health.svg<br />
| Logo Size = 200px<br />
| Location = [[Toronto]]<br />
| State = Ontario<br />
| Country = Canada<br />
| HealthCare = Medicare<br />
| Type = Teaching<br />
| Standards = <!-- optional if no national standards --><br />
| Emergency = Yes<br />
| Affiliation = [[University of Toronto]]<br />
| Speciality = Psychiatric<br />
| Beds = 493<br />
| Funding = Government<br />
| Founded = 1998<br />
| former-names = Queen Street Mental Health Centre<br>Clarke Institute of Psychiatry<br>Addiction Research Foundation<br>Donwood Institute<br />
| Closed = <!-- optional --><br />
| Website = {{url|https://www.camh.ca}}<br />
| Wiki-Links = <!-- optional --><br />
}}<br />
<br />
The '''Centre for Addiction and Mental Health''' ('''CAMH''', pronounced {{IPAc-en|k|ae|m|.|ei|tS}} {{respell|KAM|aytch}}, {{lang-fr|'''Centre de toxicomanie et de santé mentale'''}}<!--French is federally one of Canada's two official languages, a recognized minority language in Ontario, and one of two languages on the centre's sign: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-mental-crisis-1.5623907-->) is a [[psychiatric hospital|psychiatric]] [[teaching hospital]] located in [[Toronto]] and ten community locations throughout the province of [[Ontario]], Canada. It reports being the largest research facility in Canada for mental health and addictions. The hospital was formed in 1998 from the amalgamation of four separate institutions – the Queen Street Mental Health Centre, the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, the Addiction Research Foundation, and the Donwood Institute.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://peel.cioc.ca/record/CMH0002 |title=Centre for Addiction and Mental Health |publisher=Peel.cioc.ca |date=2019-05-09 |access-date=2020-02-20}}</ref> It is Canada's largest mental health teaching hospital, and the only stand-alone psychiatric emergency department in Ontario.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4959156-camh-officially-opens-new-7-million-psychiatric-emergency-department/|title=CAMH officially opens new $7-million psychiatric emergency department|first=Hilary|last=Caton|date=November 4, 2014|website=Toronto.com}}</ref> CAMH has 90 distinct clinical services across inpatient, outpatient, day treatment, and partial hospitalization models. CAMH has been the site of major advancements in psychiatric research, including the discovery of the [[Dopamine receptor D2]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.the-scientist.com/uncategorized/drugs-from-d2-43570 |title=Drugs from D2 &#124; The Scientist Magazine® |publisher=The-scientist.com |access-date=2020-02-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
CAMH was formed from the 1998 merger of the Queen Street Mental Health Centre with the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, Addiction Research Foundation, and Donwood Institute.<ref name="scrivener2007">Scrivener, Leslie (February 25, 2007). [https://www.thestar.com/printArticle/185477 Breakout at the asylum.] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607175036/http://www.thestar.com/printArticle/185477 |date=2011-06-07 }} ''[[Toronto Star]]''</ref><br />
<br />
===Queen Street Mental Health Centre===<br />
[[File:TorontoAsylumQueenStOssington.jpg|thumb|right|Queen Street Asylum for the Insane, 1910]]<br />
The Provincial Lunatic Asylum opened on January 26, 1850. It was subsequently renamed Asylum for the Insane, then Hospital for the Insane, then Ontario Hospital (1919), and then the Queen Street Mental Health Centre (1966). It had also been called the Toronto Lunatic Asylum and 999 Queen Street West.<ref name="everett2000">Everett, Barbara (2000). ''A Fragile Revolution: Consumers and Psychiatric Survivors Confront the Power of the Mental Health System''. Wilfrid Laurier University Press. {{ISBN|0-88920-342-3}}</ref><ref name="torontoist">{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Corey |url=http://torontoist.com/2015/02/the-ongoing-evolution-of-camh/ |title=The Ongoing Evolution of CAMH |publisher=Torontoist.com |date=2015-02-05 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
<br />
The original buildings were constructed in a series of rigid lines and sharp angles, consistent with the belief at the time that orderly physical structure would facilitate orderly mental states for the patients. High walls segregated the patients from the community, establishing a long-standing stigma about the facility.<ref name = "torontoist"/><br />
<br />
The Queen Street Site of CAMH contained the Samuel A. Malcolmson Lecture Theatre, named for the site's Chief Psychiatrist and Clinical Director of Forensics. In 2009, however, Malcolmson was subject to a disciplinary hearing of Ontario's College of Physicians and Surgeons, following that he sexually abused a patient and fathered a child with her. Malcomson pleaded "no contest" and resigned his license to practice. The lecture hall was renamed the Queen Street Auditorium.<ref>{{cite web|date=June 18, 2009| title=CAMH theatre renamed after scandal|publisher=National Post|url=http://www.canada.com/story.html?id=17cd7fd4-32e5-4e56-abad-4126dfa691e1}}{{dead link|date=November 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Michelle|last= Mandel|date=June 12, 2009|publisher= Toronto Sun|url=http://www.torontosun.com/news/columnists/michele_mandel/2009/06/12/9771256-sun.html|title=Michele Mandel Column}}</ref><br />
<br />
Reforms were made after a series of deaths at the Queen Street Mental Health Centre and newspaper accounts of involuntary drug treatment, electroshock therapy, and prison-like conditions.<ref name="goar2008">{{cite web|last=Goar|first= Carol|date=June 13, 2008|url= https://www.thestar.com/opinion/mental-health-progress-and-pain/article_6a4ceb6e-6b5e-5221-b84b-11b687037adf.html |title= Mental health progress and pain|publisher=[[Toronto Star]]}}</ref><ref name="straightjacket">{{cite book|date=January 1, 2002|title=No straitjacket required: a growing and vocal group of psychiatric survivors argues that diagnosing mental disorders is just a way to stifle social dissent ... |publisher=This Magazine}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Clarke Institute of Psychiatry===<br />
[[Image:CAMH Toronto6520.jpg|right|thumb|200px|[[Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (College Street site)|CAMH College Street site]]]]<br />
The institute was founded in 1966 and officially opened by Ontario Premier [[John P. Robarts]]. It was named the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, after [[Charles Kirk Clarke]], a pioneer in mental health in Canada. The institute took over the clinical, teaching, and research functions of the Toronto Psychiatric Hospital, located at 2 Surrey Place, which opened in 1925 under [[Clarence B. Farrar]]. The Institute served as the main psychiatry teaching hospital for the University of Toronto and was the headquarters for the Department of Psychiatry in the Faculty of Medicine. The first Medical and Executive Director of the Clarke was Charles Roberts, and the first Psychiatrist-in-Chief (and Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto) was Aldwyn B. Stokes. When Stokes retired in 1967, the administration was reorganized, and [[Robin Hunter (psychiatrist)|Robin Hunter]] became Medical Director and Psychiatrist-in-Chief.<ref>{{cite book|publisher=Archives Association of Ontario|title=Fonds – Toronto Psychiatric Hospital/Clarke Institute of Psychiatry|url=http://www.archeion.ca/toronto-psychiatric-hospital-clarke-institute-of-psychiatry-fonds}}</ref><br />
<br />
Fredrick H. Lowy served as Psychiatrist-in-Chief of the Clarke from 1974 until 1980, followed by Vivian Rakoff from 1980 to 1990, and Paul E. Garfinkel from 1990 until the Clarke's 1998 merger into CAMH.<ref name="psychiatry">{{cite web|publisher=University of Toronto Department of Psychiatry|title=About us|url=http://www.psychiatry.utoronto.ca/about/|access-date=2016-02-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160214212733/http://www.psychiatry.utoronto.ca/about/|archive-date=2016-02-14|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />
<br />
Upon its merger into CAMH in 1998, the Clarke building become known as the [[Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (College Street site)|CAMH College Street site]]. [[Conrad Black]] has been a generous supporter of the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry.<ref>{{cite news|agency=The Canadian Press|date=January 31, 2014|title= Conrad Black stripped of the Order of Canada|publisher=The Globe and Mail|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/conrad-black-stripped-of-the-order-of-canada/article16644365/}}</ref><br />
<br />
==== Rent increase====<br />
In 2015, CAMH's facilities at the College St. site were put in jeopardy following notice of a rent increase from $1.2 million to $4 million per year, at the renewal of its 20-year lease.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jamie |last=Strashin|title=CAMH says crippling rent increase puts College Street location in jeopardy: Coun. Joe Cressy says property owner using 'bully tactics'|publisher=CBC News|date=July 7, 2015|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-says-crippling-rent-increase-puts-college-street-location-in-jeopardy-1.3140424}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Geoffrey |last=Vendeville|date=July 7, 2015|publisher=Toronto Star|title=Sudden rent hike puts CAMH College St. facility in jeopardy|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2015/07/07/sudden-rent-hike-puts-camh-college-st-facility-in-jeopardy.html}}</ref> CAMH valued its property at $25 million, whereas the hospital's landlord, [[Brookfield Asset Management]], valued it at $100 million. Brookfield turned down CBC's interview requests. A government arbitrator was appointed who valued the property at $55 million, yielding a rent increase that CAMH was reportedly able to pay.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|date=November 19, 2015|title=CAMH 24-hour College Street location will likely stay|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-stay-college-street-location-1.3326002}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Addiction Research Foundation===<br />
The Addiction Research Foundation (ARF), then named the Alcoholism Research Foundation was founded in 1949, when H. David Archibald, who had studied at the School of Alcohol Studies at [[Yale University]], was hired by the [[Liquor Control Board of Ontario]]. His mandate was to determine the scope of alcoholism in Ontario. He was named executive director when ARF opened and remained in that post until 1976. Focusing initially on outpatient treatment, their first facility was [[Brookside Hospital]] in 1951, expanding to branch offices and new locations in 1954, the same year they set up in-house research. In 1961, formally renamed the Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Research Foundation of Ontario, ARF expanded its mission to include drugs. In 1971, they expanded to a clinical teaching hospital called the Clinical Research and Treatment Institute. In 1978 ARF opened the School for Addiction Studies and expanded their international role in policy development and research. Following provincial hospital restructuring in the 1990s, ARF was folded in 1998 into CAMH.<ref name="blocker2003">Blocker JS, Fahey DM, Tyrrell IR. ''Alcohol and temperance in modern history: an international encyclopedia.'' ABC-CLIO 2003. {{ISBN|1-57607-833-7}} pp. 3–4.</ref><br />
<br />
===Donwood Institute===<br />
In 1946, [[Gordon Bell (physician)|R. Gordon Bell]] opened a clinic in his own home for people needing mental health services. There existed an Ontario statute allowing doctors to take up to four patients into their homes without a hospital license. To his surprise, his only patients all suffered from alcoholism. It soon became necessary to move to larger facilities. To expand capacity, Bell opened Shadow Brook, which operated from 1947 to 1954, and then the Bell Clinic, which operated from 1954 to 1966.<ref>{{cite book|url=http://www.archeion.ca/donwood-institute-fonds |title=Donwood Institute fonds - Archeion |publisher=Archeion.ca |date=1985-05-26 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> The Donwood Institute then opened in 1967,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://leasidelife.com/donwood-comes-back-to-camh/|title=Donwood comes back to CAMH|date=May 2, 2016}}</ref> with 47 beds and a 4-month waiting list in the 1980s. Still focused on [[Substance use disorder|substance use]], it claimed a 65% recovery rate for general population and an 85% recovery rate among physicians with addictions.<ref name="shilliday1983">{{cite journal | author = Shilliday Greg | date = May 1983 | title = The Donwood Institute: resort of last resort | url = http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/picrender.fcgi?artid=1875283&blobtype=pdf | journal = Can Med Assoc J | volume = 128 | issue = 10| pages = 1220–1221 | pmc = 1875283 | pmid=6839246}}</ref><br />
<br />
===CAMH Queen St. Site Redevelopment ===<br />
[[File:Bellgateway camh.jpg|thumb|right|alt=CAMH Queen St. Site, Bell Gateway Building|CAMH Queen St. Site, Bell Gateway Building]]<br />
[[File:CAMH intergenerational building.jpg|thumb|right|alt=CAMH Queen St. Site, Intergenerational Wellness Centre|CAMH Queen St. Site, Intergenerational Wellness Centre]]<br />
<br />
CAMH has been undergoing a three phase redevelopment centered at its Queen Street site, with four goals:<br />
1) Deliver a new model of care and provide a healthy environment that promotes recovery;<br />
2) Bring together the best research, clinical, education, health promotion, and policy experts in one place to change the future of mental health and addictions;<br />
3) Revitalize the City of Toronto by opening up their site and by creating an inclusive new nine-block neighbourhood that benefits all and,<br />
4) Change attitudes by breaking down barriers to eliminate the stigma of mental health.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.net/News_events/Redeveloping_the_Queen_Street_site/index.html |title=Redeveloping the Queen Street Site |publisher=CAMH |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> Phase 1A was undertaken by Eastern Construction and completed in 2008<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.canadianarchitect.com/features/mind-over-matter/|title=Mind Over Matter|publisher=Canadian Architect|access-date=21 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180122071857/https://www.canadianarchitect.com/features/mind-over-matter/|archive-date=22 January 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> and Phase 1B was undertaken by [[Carillion]] and completed in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/CAMH_redevelopment/redevelopment_updates/about_phase_1B/Pages/faqscommunityredevelopment.aspx|title=Phase 1B Redevelopment Project Questions & Answers|publisher=CAMH|access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref> Phase 1C is being undertaken by [[PCL Construction]] and is expected to be complete in 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://plenarygroup.com/projects/north-america/centre-for-addiction-and-mental-health-phase-1c|title=Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Phase 1C|publisher=Plenary|access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2008, CAMH announced the completion of four new buildings (forming Phase 1A of the project) to accommodate CAMH's Addiction and Mood & Anxiety Programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/CAMH_redevelopment/phase1A/Pages/default.aspx|title=Phase 1A: 2005-2008|publisher=CAMH|access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref><br />
<br />
The Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute was established with a $30 million donation in 2011 from Linda Campbell, Gaye Farncombe, and Susan Grange, each granddaughters of Canadian magnate [[Roy Thomson, 1st Baron Thomson of Fleet|Roy Thomson]] and nieces of [[Kenneth Thomson, 2nd Baron Thomson of Fleet|Ken Thomson]]. CAMH CEO, Catherine Zahn, said research on the brain is the most promising pathway to progress in mental illness research.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/camh-gets-monumental-30m-donation-for-research-centre-1.732526 |title=CAMH gets 'monumental' $30M donation for research centre &#124; CTV Toronto News |publisher=Toronto.ctvnews.ca |date=2011-11-28 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> Bell donated $10 million to CAMH in 2011, reportedly the largest corporate gift in Canada to mental illness.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=The Canadian Press|date=May 11, 2011|title= CAMH gets record $10M donation from Bell|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-gets-record-10m-donation-from-bell-1.1101049}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2012, CAMH announced the completion of three new buildings (forming Phase 1B of the project): the Bell Gateway Building for the central administration, a utilities and parking building, and the Intergenerational Wellness Centre which includes 12 new beds for youth ages 14–18.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|date=June 21, 2012|title=Toronto's 'new' Centre for Addiction and Mental Health opens|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-s-new-centre-for-addiction-and-mental-health-opens-1.1195031}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Margaret McCain]], the former lieutenant-governor of New Brunswick and widow of [[McCain Foods]] co-founder [[Wallace McCain]], donated $10 million to CAMH in 2012 to establish the Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth and Family Mental Health.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=The Canadian Press|date=April 25, 2012|title=Margaret McCain donates $10 million to CAMH|url=http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/margaret-mccain-donates-10-million-to-camh-1.801326}}</ref> In 2013, the Slaight Family donated to $50 million to health care institutions, of which CAMH received $10 million. The donation permitted the opening of a centre dedicated to identifying and treating early signs of mental illness in youth.<ref>{{cite web|first=Maryam |last=Shah|date=October 29, 2013|title=Slaight family donates $50M to hospitals|publisher= Toronto Sun|url=http://www.torontosun.com/2013/10/29/slait-family-donates-50m-to-hospitals}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2014, philanthropist and business executive Andrew Fass donated $1,000,000 to CAMH for the hospital to create a wellness program for its staff.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/million-dollar-gift-to-create-healthier-workplaces-1960542.htm |title=Million Dollar Gift to Create Healthier Workplaces |publisher=Marketwired.com |date=2014-10-23 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> In 2016, Fass withdrew his donation, saying that CAMH was unable to show how they were spending the money.<ref name = "global-2016-09-29">{{cite web|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2973050/philanthropist-rescinds-1-million-donation-from-camh-citing-lack-of-transparency/ |title=Philanthropist rescinds $1 million donation from CAMH citing lack of transparency |publisher=Globalnews.ca |date=2016-09-29 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> The grant was to be used for CAMH's "Well@Work" program, an initiative to provide Canadian workplaces with training to identify risks of mental illness and strategies to support employees in need.<ref name = "star-2016-09-29">{{cite web|author=Sammy Hudes |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/09/29/camh-loses-1-million-donation-due-to-issues-of-accountability.html |title=CAMH loses $1 million donation due to 'issues of accountability' &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2016-09-29 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
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CAMH opened the Emergency Department in 2014, funded by a $2.5 million private donation and a $4.2 million grant from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.<ref>{{cite web|first=Hilary |last=Caton|date=November 4, 2014|title= CAMH officially opens new $7-million psychiatric emergency department|publisher=Inside Toronto|url=http://www.insidetoronto.com/news-story/4959156-camh-officially-opens-new-7-million-psychiatric-emergency-department/}}</ref><br />
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In 2016, CAMH constructed a sweat lodge for [[Aboriginal peoples in Canada|Aboriginal]] patients in order to promote spiritual, physical, and emotional healing.<ref name = "cbc2016">{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/camh-bolsters-sweat-lodge-for-indigenous-clients-1.3651943 |title=CAMH bolsters treatment services for Aboriginal patients with sweat lodge - CBC News &#124; Indigenous |publisher=Cbc.ca |date=2016-06-24 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> Also in 2016, CAMH opened walk-in clinics for youth.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-youth-mental-health-clinics-1.3633921 |title=CAMH to open 3 youth mental health walk-in clinics in Toronto - Toronto - CBC News |publisher=Cbc.ca |date=2016-06-14 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
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In 2020, the eight-storey, 110 patient bed McCain Complex Care & Recovery Building and five-storey 125 patient bed Crisis & Critical Care Building and 24-hour psychiatric emergency department were opened.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/58717/ontario-building-a-modern-connected-and-comprehensive-mental-health-and-addictions-system|title=Ontario Newsroom|website=news.ontario.ca}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/11/26/a-vision-for-the-future-camh-unveils-new-emergency-department-therapeutic-recovery-complex.html|title=A vision for the future: CAMH unveils new emergency department, therapeutic recovery complex|date=November 26, 2020|website=thestar.com}}</ref><br />
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==Research==<br />
CAMH reports being the largest research facility in Canada for mental health and addictions, including over 100 scientists over 150 research trainees. In the 2014-2015 fiscal year, CAMH received $44,384,230 in research funding and published more than 500 research articles.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=CAMH|title=Research facts and figures|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/research/about_research_at_CAMH/research_facts_and_figures/Pages/research_facts_and_figures.aspx}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Administration==<br />
Psychiatrist and Clarke Institute President Paul E. Garfinkel was appointed the first President and CEO of CAMH in 1998.<ref name = psychiatry/> He was followed by neurologist Catherine Zahn in 2009.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Globe & Mail|date=November 4, 2009|url=http://www.globeportfolio.ca/servlet/AppNoticeArticleHTMLTemplate?tf=GlobeInvestor/AppNotices/DisplayNotice.html&cf=GlobeInvestor/AppNotices/config-neutral.cfg&slug=Zahn&date=20091104|title=CAMH: Dr. Catherine Zahn, President and CEO}}</ref><br />
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Upon CAMH's formation, Peter Catford was appointed vice president for Information Technology. In 2002, Catford outsourced the public hospital's computer needs to H.I. Next, a private company which Catford founded and co-owned. When the ''[[Toronto Star]]'' reported on what it deemed an apparent conflict of interest regarding the spending of public money, the hospital would not reveal how much it paid Catford or his company, nor would CAMH disclose any details of its contract with H.I. Next or what other firms bid on the work. Catford commented only that "I feel honoured to work with (CAMH) and I feel like it has been done ethically."<ref>{{cite web|author=David Bruser |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/2007/03/08/hospital_vps_deal_a_conflict_critic_says.html |title=Hospital VP's deal a conflict, critic says &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2007-03-08 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> In interviews with the ''Toronto Star'', Dev Chopra, executive vice-president of CAMH first said there was nothing inappropriate about Catford's role. "We got into it with our eyes open. There is no conflict."<ref>{{cite web|author=David Bruser |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/2007/03/10/hospital_vp_to_quit_in_conflict_concerns.html |title=Hospital VP to quit in 'conflict' concerns &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2007-03-10 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> However, Chopra later said there were "some optics from a conflict perspective" noting the hospital might revisit the issue that day. Catford left his CAMH position two days later, but the Star reported that hospital officials said changes were being considered months before the Star published its story about the issue.<ref>{{cite web|first=David |last=Bruser|date=March 10, 2007|title=Hospital VP to quit in 'conflict' concerns|publisher=Toronto Star|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/2007/03/10/hospital_vp_to_quit_in_conflict_concerns.html}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/opseu-calls-for-investigation-into-it-contract-at-camh-639347.htm |title=OPSEU Calls for Investigation Into IT Contract at CAMH |publisher=Marketwired.com |date=2007-03-08 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
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== Criticisms ==<br />
CAMH's administration has come under criticism including from staff who report safety problems<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ctvnews.ca/health/camh-pleads-guilty-to-workplace-safety-charge-after-alleged-beating-of-nurse-1.2991678 |title=CAMH pleads guilty to workplace safety charge after alleged beating of nurse &#124; CTV News |publisher=Ctvnews.ca |date=2016-07-18 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref> and from donors who withdrew their funding citing accountability problems.<ref>{{cite web|author=Sammy Hudes |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/10/16/camh-donor-says-more-transparency-needed-about-money.html |title=CAMH donor says more transparency needed about money &#124; Toronto Star |work=Thestar.com |date=2016-10-16 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><ref name="global-2016-09-29"/><br />
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===David Healy Affair===<br />
Soon after CAMH was founded, its administration was embroiled in a scandal involving [[Eli Lilly and Company]], which donated $1.5 million to CAMH, and [[David Healy (psychiatrist)|David Healy]], a prominent critic of [[Prozac]], the widely used antidepressant manufactured by Eli Lilly. CAMH hired Healy to be the head of its Mood and Anxiety Program, but withdrew the job offer after hearing about Healy's views.<ref name = "Boseley">{{cite web|first=Sarah |last=Boseley|date=May 7, 2001|title=Bitter pill|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/education/2001/may/07/medicalscience.highereducation}}</ref><br />
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CAMH aggressively recruited Healy, and CAMH Physician-in-Chief, David Goldbloom, offered Healy a job as the head of the Mood and Anxiety Program. Healy accepted and soon after gave a lecture in which he reiterated his views about Prozac increasing risk of suicide. A few days later, Goldbloom withdrew the job offer, saying "Essentially, we believe that it is not a good fit between you and the role as leader of an academic program in mood and anxiety disorders at the centre and in relation to the university….We do not feel your approach is compatible with the goals for development of the academic and clinical resource that we have."<ref name = Boseley/><br />
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The decision caused an "uproar" among Canadian academics, with the Canadian Association of University Teachers calling CAMH actions "an affront to academic freedom in Canada."<ref name = Boseley/> Scientists from 13 countries, including Nobel laureates [[Julius Axelrod]] and [[Arvid Carlsson]], protested CAMH's actions<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Times Higher Education|date=September 28, 2001|title=Rejected lecturer is suing Toronto|url=https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/rejected-lecturer-is-suing-toronto/165048.article}}</ref> as did the Society for Academic Freedom and Scholarship (SAFS).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.safs.ca/issuescases/camh.html |title=Camh |access-date=2016-02-03 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160225170709/http://www.safs.ca/issuescases/camh.html |archive-date=2016-02-25 }}</ref><br />
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Healy sued CAMH and the University of Toronto, alleging breach of contract, defamation, and denial of academic freedom. The lawsuit sought damages of $9.4 million, including $2.6 million from CAMH CEO Paul Garfinkel, and $1.4 million from the U of T Dean of Medicine.<ref>{{cite web|first=Larissa |last=Ruderman|title=Exclusive: Dr. David Healy interview|date=26 November 2001|publisher=The Varsity|url=http://thevarsity.ca/2001/11/26/exclusive-dr-david-healy-interview/}}</ref> The university distanced itself from CAMH: According to U of T President, Robert Birgeneau, "Everyone is trying to blame the university for something that happened at one of our hospitals."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/rejected-lecturer-is-suing-toronto/165048.article |title=Rejected lecturer is suing Toronto &#124; Times Higher Education (THE) |publisher=Times Higher Education |date=2018-01-11 |access-date=2018-01-21}}</ref><br />
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The lawsuit was settled with Healy receiving an appointment as visiting professor as the University of Toronto. The president of the Canadian Association of University Teachers, Vic Catano, said "We see the settlement as a complete vindication for Dr. Healy."<ref>{{cite journal | author = Spurgeon David | year = 2002 | title = Psychiatrist settles dispute with Toronto University | journal = British Medical Journal | volume = 324 | issue = 7347| page = 1177 | pmc=1174757| doi = 10.1136/bmj.324.7347.1177/a }}</ref><br />
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===Child Gender Identity Clinic===<br />
In 1975, psychiatrist Susan Bradley founded a clinic in CAMH to work with [[gender dysphoria|gender dysphoric]] children. Bradley collaborated for many years with psychologist [[Kenneth Zucker]], and they established the clinic as the largest [[gender identity]] service in Canada and an international center for research.<ref name = "Paterson">{{cite web|first=Tara |last=Paterson |date=February 21, 2015|publisher=National Post|url=http://news.nationalpost.com/life/as-trans-issues-become-mainstream-question-of-how-to-address-variant-gender-expression-comes-to-forefront|title=Life as trans issues become mainstream question of how to address variant gender expression comes to forefront}}</ref> They said that in their studies, 80% of the children grow out of the behavior.<ref name="brown2006">{{cite news | author = Brown, Patricia Leigh | date = December 2, 2006 | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/02/us/02child.html | title = Supporting Boys or Girls When the Line Isn't Clear | work = [[The New York Times]]}}</ref> They used different approaches with children than adolescents because they said that children were more likely to identify with their birth sex.<ref name = brown2006/><br />
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Regarding adolescents, Zucker would "support a teenager or adult who wants to [[Transitioning (transgender)|transition]] using hormones and surgeries."<ref name = Paterson/> Regarding children, however, Zucker said, "We are trying to help a child feel more comfortable with the gender identity that matches their birth sex," and that they use a variety of techniques to "help a child think more flexibly" about their gender. According to a 2006 article in ''[[The New York Times]]'', Zucker did this by "encouraging same-sex friendships and activities like board games that move beyond strict gender roles."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Brown |first1=Patricia Leigh |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/02/us/02child.html?pagewanted=2 |title=Supporting Boys or Girls When the Line Isn't Clear |work=The New York Times |date=2 December 2006 |access-date=21 January 2018}}</ref> Zucker said that a child could be asked to make a list of pros and cons about being different genders so that the child realizes that "there are both good and not so good things about being a boy and being a girl."<ref name = Paterson/><br />
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Zucker's approach was controversial and considered by some to be [[conversion therapy]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Erica |last=Lenti |date=25 June 2015 |title=CAMH Supports Bill 77 Despite Criticism of Controversial Gender Identity Clinic |publisher=Torontoist |url=http://torontoist.com/2015/06/camh-supports-bill-77-despite-criticism-of-controversial-gender-identity-clinic/}}</ref> In January 2015, members of Rainbow Health Ontario, a provincial health promotion and navigation organization, approached CAMH expressing their concerns regarding Zucker's clinic.<ref name="metro">{{cite news |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150320203815/http://metronews.ca/news/toronto/1315743/outcry-prompts-camh-to-review-its-controversial-treatment-of-trans-youth/ |archive-date=20 March 2015 |url=http://metronews.ca/news/toronto/1315743/outcry-prompts-camh-to-review-its-controversial-treatment-of-trans-youth/ |title=Outcry prompts CAMH to review its controversial treatment of trans youth |first=Jessica Smith |last=Cross |newspaper=Metro |publisher=Metro International |date=18 March 2015 |access-date=1 November 2022}}</ref><ref name="howthefight">{{cite news |last=Singal |first=Jesse |date=7 February 2016 |title=How the Fight Over Transgender Kids Got a Leading Sex Researcher Fired |url=https://www.thecut.com/2016/02/fight-over-trans-kids-got-a-researcher-fired.html |work=New York Magazine |access-date=30 October 2022}}</ref> Rainbow Health Ontario submitted a review of academic literature and clinical practices for [[transgender youth]], and expressed concern that the gender identity clinic was not following accepted practices.<ref name="ashley_2022_4">{{Cite book |title=Banning Transgender Conversion Practices: A Legal and Policy Analysis |last1=Ashley |first1=Florence |publisher=University of British Columbia Press |location=Vancouver, BC |date=2022 |isbn=978-0774866958 |page=4}}</ref> Others online linked the Gender Identity Clinic's practices to [[suicide]] of transgender youth caused by conversion therapy, and referenced the high-profile case of [[Leelah Alcorn]], a [[transgender]] teen from [[Ohio]].<ref name="howthefight"/> In February 2015, CAMH ordered an external review of its gender identity clinic for children and teens.<ref name="ubelacker_20150612">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ont-conversion-therapy-ban-may-see-some-gender-identity-clinics-change-approach/article24943976/ |title=Ont. conversion therapy ban may see some gender identity clinics change approach |website=The Globe and Mail |last1=Ubelacker |first1=Sheryl |date=12 June 2015 |access-date=1 November 2022}}</ref><br />
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In March 2015, the [[Ontario Provincial Parliament]] introduced the Affirming Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Act, aimed at banning conversion therapy practices.<ref name="metro"/> In June 2015, the legislation was passed unanimously by the provincial parliament.<ref name="globe_20150604">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ontario-passes-ndp-bill-to-ban-conversion-therapy-for-lgbtq-children/article24811878/ |title=Ontario passes NDP bill to ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ children |author=The Canadian Press |website=The Globe and Mail |date=4 June 2015 |access-date=1 November 2022}}</ref><ref name="ubelacker_20150612"/> The law made LGBT conversion therapy illegal to provide to minors, and removed it from public [[health insurance]] coverage for adults.<ref name="ubelacker_20150612"/> After the bill was passed into law, CAMH stated that they welcomed the unanimous support for the bill.<ref name="lenti_20150625">{{Cite web |url=https://torontoist.com/2015/06/camh-supports-bill-77-despite-criticism-of-controversial-gender-identity-clinic/ |title=CAMH Supports Bill 77 Despite Criticism of Controversial Gender Identity Clinic |website=Torontoist |last1=Lenti |first1=Erica |date=25 June 2015 |access-date=3 November 2022}}</ref><br />
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The external review noted numerous strengths of the clinic, but also described it as an insular entity with an approach dissimilar from other clinics and described it as being out of step with current best practices, including [[Standards of Care for the Health of Transsexual, Transgender, and Gender Nonconforming People#Version 7|WPATH SOC Version 7]]. They also raised concerns about clinicians asking age inappropriate questions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.transadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/GIC-Review-26Nov2015-TA1.pdf|title=External review of the Gender Identity Clinic of the child, youth and family services in the underserved populations program at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health|publisher=CAMH|date=2015-11-26|access-date=2019-09-12}}</ref> After the review, CAMH shut down the clinic and fired Zucker. [[Kwame McKenzie]], medical director of CAMH's child, youth, and family services, said "We want to apologize for the fact that not all of the practices in our childhood gender identity clinic are in step with the latest thinking."<ref>{{cite news|last1=Ubelacker|first1=Sheryl|title=CAMH to 'wind down' controversial gender identity clinic services|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/camh-to-wind-down-controversial-gender-identity-clinic-services/article27766580/|access-date=15 December 2015|agency=Canadian Press|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|date=December 15, 2015}}</ref> CAMH announced a process of consultation with community leaders to examine how best to offer care.<ref>{{cite news|title=CAMH to 'wind down' gender identity clinic after review of services|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-gender-identity-1.3366424?cmp=rss|access-date=December 15, 2015|agency=Canadian Press|publisher=CBC News|date=December 15, 2015}}</ref><br />
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A petition of over 500 sexuality and gender diversity experts decried the change.<ref>{{cite web|first=Sheryl |last=Ubelacker |date=January 23, 2016 |title=Group protests closure of youth gender identity clinic at CAMH, director's removal|publisher=Global News|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2473568/group-protests-closure-of-youth-gender-identity-clinic-at-camh-directors-removal/}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vocativ.com/news/270004/shuttered-clinic-highlights-controversy-over-trans-children/|title=Shuttered clinic highlights controversy over trans children|publisher=Vocativ|access-date=2016-01-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130084732/http://www.vocativ.com/news/270004/shuttered-clinic-highlights-controversy-over-trans-children/|archive-date=2016-01-30|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2018, CAMH paid Zucker $586,000 and issued a public apology as part of a settlement.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-settlement-former-head-gender-identity-clinic-1.4854015|publisher=CBC|access-date=2018-12-21|title=CAMH reaches settlement with former head of gender identity clinic}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Forensics===<br />
CAMH's forensic department and its leadership have been the subject of criticism from Ontario judges and the public for issues including public safety,<ref name = city2015/> patient civil rights violations,<ref name = globemail/> and turning away patients ordered to CAMH by judges.<ref name = judgespush/> This culminated in Ontario Superior Court Justice Maureen Forestell who reportedly "tore a strip off of" CAMH for its actions. Graham Glancy, a forensic psychiatrist at the Maplehurst Correctional Complex accused CAMH of focusing too much on patients and treatments to enhance its international reputation, but at the expense of the less glamorous forensic patients. He added "Cities like Ottawa and London are better resourced but Toronto is terrible. It's a disgrace, really." Toronto defence counsel Chris Hynes also attributed the problems to the CAMH leadership, saying "CAMH front-line workers pay the price for decisions made by the centre's privatized board of directors."<ref name = judgespush>{{cite news |title=Judges push back against hospitals turning away mentally ill offenders |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/judges-push-back-against-hospitals-turning-away-mentally-ill-offenders/article1314387/ |newspaper=The Globe and Mail }}</ref><br />
<br />
====AWOL patients====<br />
One recurrent issue has been the number of violent or dangerous patients who escape custody from CAMH's forensic wards.<ref name = city2015>{{cite news |title=Alarming numbers of people walking out of CAMH |publisher=CTV News |url=http://www.citynews.ca/2015/09/11/video-alarming-numbers-of-people-walking-out-of-camh/}}</ref> After filing a freedom of information act request with the police, the ''[[Toronto Star]]'' reported that CAMH had nearly as many AWOLs as all other Toronto hospitals combined (2,060 and 2,371 for the period 2004 to 2014).<ref>{{cite news |last=Lauren |first=Pelley |date=11 September 2015 |title=More patients go missing at CAMH than any other Toronto hospital, say numbers |newspaper=Toronto Star |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2015/09/11/more-patients-go-missing-at-camh-than-any-other-toronto-hospital-say-numbers.html}}</ref><br />
<br />
One of the most widely reported incidents involved Thomas Brailsford, who was institutionalized at CAMH after beheading his mother and being deemed a "danger to himself and others." Brailsford took off from a taxicab on his way to a medical appointment, representing his second escape in a year.<ref name = "Courtney">{{cite news |first=Russ |last=Courtney |date= 5 February 2016 |title=CAMH says it has "tightened" procedures after mentally-ill killer bolted in September |publisher=Newstalk1010 |url=http://www.newstalk1010.com/news/2016/02/05/camh-says-it-has-tightened-procedures-after-mentally-ill-killer-bolted-in-september}}</ref><br />
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In an interview with Toronto columnist Jerry Agar, CAMH's chief of forensic psychiatry, Sandy Simpson said "Clearly, we will be reviewing this carefully to look at how we assessed the risk in this case."<ref name = "Agar">{{cite news |first=Jerry |last=Agar |date=8 February 2016 |title=CAMH should disclose security measures |newspaper=Toronto Sun |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2016/02/08/camh-should-disclose-security-measures}}</ref> Kate Richards of CAMH media relations subsequently said "We have tightened aspects of these procedures and...We are confident that the changes implemented in this case have been effective."<ref name = Courtney/> Agar wrote that he has "been eager to have Simpson back on the radio show to discuss what measures have been put in place" but had not received any response. Five months later, CAMH told Agar "Dr. Simpson is not available for a follow-up interview."<ref name = Agar/><br />
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In 2019, the Ontario government ordered a review of CAMH patient passes and privileges after a series of patient escapes from the secure forensic psychiatry units.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/2019/08/01/camh-will-share-its-review-of-ncr-patients-who-fled.html|title=Opinion &#124; CAMH will share its review of patients who fled the hospital grounds|date=August 1, 2019|website=thestar.com}}</ref> In one case, a not criminally responsible (NCR) patient who absconded the hospital later left the country by plane.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://toronto.citynews.ca/2019/12/18/camh-day-pass-system-installing-fences/|title=CAMH changing day pass system, installing fences after review of escaped patients - CityNews Toronto|website=toronto.citynews.ca}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Workplace safety ===<br />
In 2007, following a series of attacks on staff by patients, the [[Ministry of Labour (Ontario)|Ontario Ministry of Labour]] asked CAMH to develop a workplace violence and policy program. In 2008, the Ministry of Labour laid nine workplace safety charges against CAMH in response to allegations by staff that they had been attacked by patients.<ref name="Globe1">{{cite news | title = CAMH Hit With Nine Workplace Safety Charges | publisher = The Globe and Mail | date = November 26, 2008 | url = https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/camh-hit-with-nine-workplace-safety-charges/article663889/}}</ref> CAMH was fined $70,000 in 2009 for two attacks against nursing staff in 2007 and 2008.<ref>{{cite news | title = CAMH Fined for Failing to Protect Nurses | publisher = CBC News Toronto | date = August 14, 2009 | url = http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-fined-for-failing-to-protect-nurses-1.854911}}</ref> In 2014, the Ontario Ministry of Labour laid charges against CAMH for failing to protect workers from workplace violence following an attack earlier that year.<ref name="metronews1">{{cite web | title = Reports of Assaults and Violence Toward Nurses Rising, Statistics Show | publisher = Metro News | date = July 1, 2015 | url = http://www.metronews.ca/news/toronto/2015/07/01/reports-of-assaults-and-violence-toward-nurses-rising-statistics-show.html | access-date = January 15, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160127055315/http://www.metronews.ca/news/toronto/2015/07/01/reports-of-assaults-and-violence-toward-nurses-rising-statistics-show.html | archive-date = January 27, 2016 | url-status = dead }}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2014, the Ontario Ministry of Labour laid more charges against CAMH for failing to implement procedures to protect staff from workplace violence following another attack that year.<ref name="metronews1"/> The prosecution asked the court to send “a clear message” that the CAMH situation was unacceptable.<ref name="“star2016-07-18”">{{cite web | title = CAMH fined $80,000 after beating that left nurse 'beyond recognition' | date = July 18, 2016 | work = The Star | url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2016/07/18/camh-fined-80000-after-beating-that-left-nurse-beyond-recognition.html}}</ref> CAMH was found guilty and fined again. CAMH's Chief of Nursing, Rani Srivastava, said that CAMH accepted the court's decision adding that the violence had a “devastating impact” on “all of us at CAMH.”<ref name="“star2016-07-18”"/><br />
<br />
Three months later, another nurse was punched, kicked in the face, and dragged into a locked utility room where she was repeatedly kicked in the head, suffering fractures and nerve damage.<ref name = "cbc2016.10.25">{{cite news | title = Nurse suffers eye injury in assault at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health | publisher = CBC | date = October 25, 2016 | url = https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/centre-addiction-mental-health-nurse-assault-beating-1.3820968}}</ref> Vicki McKenna of the Ontario Nurses' Association reported that CAMH has not been taking part in government committees to improve workplace safety and called for CAMH senior management to be held personally responsible for the continued workplace violence. Rani Srivastava said that the incident was "completely unexpected," that CAMH is "saddened" and "shocked" by what happened, and that "any incident is one too many."<ref name = "cbc2016.10.25"/><br />
<br />
===Reporting failures===<br />
Simpson has also been criticized by the Ontario Review Board for secluding a patient for two months but not informing the board, as required. Simpson claimed that the regulation "was unclear" about whether CAMH had a duty to report what it was doing. The board disagreed, ruling against CAMH.<ref name = globemail>{{cite news |title=CAMH criticized for isolating patient without notification |newspaper= The Globe and Mail |url= https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/camh-criticized-for-isolating-patient-without-notification/article6734423}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Public policy statements==<br />
CAMH issues statements about local and provincial regulations on addictive behaviors.<br />
<br />
===Alcohol===<br />
CAMH policy opposes the privatization of alcohol sales, citing evidence that the increase in availability increases alcohol-related harms and associated costs. They supported that the Liquor Control Board of Ontario should maintain its monopoly on alcohol sales.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/influencing_public_policy/Documents/Submission_to_PACGA_2014-08-28.pdf|title=Submission to the Premier's Advisory Council on Government Assets: The role of the LCBO in reducing alcohol‐related harm in Ontario|publisher=CAMH}}</ref> CAMH referred to "the plan to allow the sale of VQA wines at farmers' markets across the province" as "cause for concern" because it would increase access to alcohol.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/influencing_public_policy/Documents/JointSubmission-VQAwine_in_farmers_markets_2014-03-21.pdf|title=Submission to the Ministry of the Attorney General: Proposed regulatory amendments to the Liquor Licence Act|publisher=CAMH}}</ref> Similarly, together with other health organizations, CAMH called for a provincial alcohol strategy, ahead of Ontario's plan to permit the sale of beer in grocery stores.<ref>{{cite news|first=Carly|last= Weeks|title=Why Canada needs a new alcohol strategy|publisher=The Globe and Mail|date=October 2, 2015|url= https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health/alongside-marijuana-debate-new-alcohol-strategy-needed/article26633423/}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Marijuana===<br />
In a 2014 policy document, CAMH expressed support for the legalization of marijuana with strict control regulations.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CBC News|date=October 9, 2014|title= CAMH calls for legalization of marijuana|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/camh-calls-for-legalization-of-marijuana-1.2793460}}</ref> According to CAMH CEO, Catherine Zahn, "Only through legalization can we implement a public-health approach, treating cannabis use as a health issue and not one to be addressed through law enforcement and the court system. This is the approach we take with tobacco and alcohol. As with alcohol, a legal cannabis market can be regulated with controls that address risk factors associated with use".<ref>{{cite web|first=Catherine |last=Zahn|publisher=Ottawa Citizen|date=October 20, 2014|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/national/catherine-zahn-legalization-is-the-best-approach-to-cannabis-control|title=Legalization is the best approach to cannabis control}}</ref><br />
<br />
===Gambling===<br />
CAMH has opposed the expansion of Toronto's [[Woodbine Racetrack]]. In a policy statement, CAMH said increased availability of gambling results in increased harms and predicted that a large portion of any increased revenues from the racetrack would come from people with gambling problems.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/influencing_public_policy/Documents/CAMH_Submission_Executive_Committee_Woodbine_2015-06-30.pdf|title=Submission to the Toronto City Council Executive Committee: Expansion of gambling at Woodbine Racetrack|publisher=CAMH}}</ref><br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
*{{Official website|https://www.camh.ca/}}<br />
<br />
{{Toronto hospitals}}<br />
{{Toronto teaching hospitals}}<br />
{{Coord|43.64455|-79.41761|region:CA-ON_type:landmark|display=title}}<br />
<br />
{{authority control}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Mental health organizations in Canada]]<br />
[[Category:Health in Toronto]]<br />
[[Category:Transgender and medicine]]<br />
[[Category:Hospitals affiliated with the University of Toronto]]<br />
[[Category:Psychiatric hospitals in Ontario]]<br />
[[Category:Addiction and substance abuse organizations]]<br />
[[Category:Hospitals established in 1998]]<br />
[[Category:1998 establishments in Ontario]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Automattic&diff=1218078869Automattic2024-04-09T15:53:54Z<p>Brandon.macuser: #article-section-source-editor</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|American web development company}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Automatic (disambiguation){{!}}Automatic}}<br />
{{Multiple issues|<br />
{{Advert|date=August 2023}}<br />
{{Third-party|date=February 2024}}<br />
}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2024}}<br />
{{Infobox company<br />
| name = Automattic Inc.<br />
| logo = Automattic logo.svg<br />
| type = [[Privately held company|Private]]<br />
| founder = [[Matt Mullenweg]]<br />
| key_people = [[Matt Mullenweg]] ([[CEO]], [[President (corporate title)|president]])<br />
| industry = {{Unbulleted list|Internet|Web Development|Software}}<br />
| products = {{Unbulleted list<br />
|[[Akismet]]<br />
|[[Gravatar]]<br />
|[[WooCommerce]]<br />
|[[WordPress.com]]<br />
|[[Automattic#Products|& others]]<br />
}}<br />
| revenue = <br />
| operating_income = <br />
| net_income = <br />
| num_employees = 1,934 (January 2024)<ref name=":01">{{Cite web |date= 23 July 2005|title=About Us |url=https://automattic.com/about/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240201024818/https://automattic.com/about/ |archive-date=2024-02-01 |access-date=2024-02-01 |website=Automattic |language=en}}</ref><br />
| foundation = {{start date and age|2005}}, in the United States<br />
| location = [[San Francisco]], [[California]], US<br />
| homepage = [https://automattic.com automattic.com]<br />
| module = {{infobox network service provider|child=yes}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Automattic Inc.''' is an American global [[distributed company]] which was founded in August 2005 and is most notable for [[WordPress.com]] (a [[freemium]] blogging service), as well as its contributions to [[WordPress]] (an [[open source]] blogging software). The company's name is a play on founder [[Matt Mullenweg]]'s first name and the word "automatic".<ref name="origin1">{{cite web |last1=Morrison |first1=Chris |title=How doing everything wrong turned Automattic into a multibillion dollar media powerhouse |url=https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/19/automattic-tc1-origin/ |website=TechCrunch |access-date=31 March 2024 |date=19 October 2021}}</ref><br />
<br />
==History==<br />
On January 11, 2006, it was announced that Toni Schneider would be leaving Yahoo! to become [[Chief executive officer|CEO]] of Automattic. He was previously CEO of [[Oddpost]] before it was acquired by [[Yahoo!]], where he had continued as a senior executive.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gigaom.com/2006/01/11/automattic-wordpress|title=Yahoo Exec Exits For Automattic CEO Gig|first=Om|last=Malik|date=11 January 2006|website=gigaom.com|access-date=24 January 2018|archive-date=20 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170920191024/https://gigaom.com/2006/01/11/automattic-wordpress/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>[http://toni.schneidersf.com/2006/01/11/moving-on-from-yahoo-automattic/ Moving On From Yahoo -> Automattic] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071114231716/http://toni.schneidersf.com/2006/01/11/moving-on-from-yahoo-automattic/ |date=November 14, 2007 }}</ref><br />
<br />
In April 2006, Automattic's [[Regulation D (SEC)|Regulation D]] filing showed it had raised approximately $1.1 million in funding,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sec.gov/cgi-bin/browse-edgar?CIK=0001341712&action=getcompany|title=EDGAR Search Results|website=www.sec.gov|access-date=24 January 2018}}</ref> which Mullenweg addressed in his blog. Investors were [[Polaris Ventures]], True Ventures, and Radar Partners.<ref name="origin1" /><br />
<br />
On September 9, 2010, Automattic gave the WordPress trademark and control over bbPress and BuddyPress to the WordPress Foundation.<ref name=trademark>{{cite web|url=http://ma.tt/2010/09/wordpress-trademark/|title=A New Home for the WordPress&nbsp;Trademark|date=9 September 2010|access-date=24 January 2018}}</ref><br />
<br />
Its [[remote work]]ing [[culture]] was the topic of a participative journalism project by [[Scott Berkun]], resulting in the 2013 book ''The Year Without Pants: WordPress.com and the Future of Work''.<ref name="Berkun2013">{{cite book<br />
|author=Scott Berkun<br />
|title=The Year Without Pants: WordPress.com and the Future of Work<br />
|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=nU1KlwEACAAJ<br />
|date=10 September 2013<br />
|publisher=Wiley<br />
|isbn=978-1-118-66063-8}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 21, 2016, Automattic, via a subsidiary company (Knock Knock, WHOIS There) managed the launch and later development of the [[.blog]] gTLD, thus becoming a domain registrar.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://my.blog/about-knock-knock-whois-there/|title=About Knock Knock, WHOIS There|date=13 April 2016|access-date=24 January 2018}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[File:Automattic Inc. office, San Francisco (July 2017) -3.jpg|thumb|The former office of Automattic at 140 Hawthorne Street in San Francisco n July 2017 (since closed)|alt=]]<br />
In 2017, Automattic announced that it would close its San Francisco office, which had served as an optional co-working space for its employees alongside similar spaces near Portland, Maine and in Cape Town, South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://qz.com/1002655/the-company-behind-wordpress-is-closing-its-gorgeous-san-francisco-office-because-its-employees-never-show-up/|title=Wordpress's owner is closing its San Francisco office because its employees never show up|last=Staley|first=Oliver|date=2017-06-12|website=Quartz|language=en|access-date=2019-10-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
In August 2019, Automattic closed a deal with [[Verizon Media]] to acquire [[Tumblr]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Radulovic |first=Petrana |date=August 12, 2019 |title=Tumblr sold off yet again, adult content bans to be relaxed, but are being discussed. |url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/8/12/20802663/tumblr-acquisition-automattic-verizon |access-date=August 12, 2019 |work=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]}}</ref> Mullenweg stated that he saw Tumblr as an "on-ramp" for WordPress adoption.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Milano |first=Matt |date=2023-08-23 |title=Matt Mullenweg, CEO of Automattic, Sees Tumblr As a Gateway Product |url=https://www.webpronews.com/matt-mullenweg-ceo-of-automattic-sees-tumblr-as-a-gateway-product/ |access-date=2024-02-29 |website=WebProNews |language=en}}</ref> <br />
<br />
In September of the same year, Automattic announced a Series D funding round of $300 million from [[Salesforce]], increasing its valuation to US$3 billion.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 September 2019 |title=Automattic raises $300 million at $3 billion valuation from Salesforce Ventures |url=https://social.techcrunch.com/2019/09/19/automattic-raises-300-million-at-3-billion-valuation-from-salesforce-ventures/ |access-date=2020-04-23 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
Ending in February 2021, Automattic brought in US$288 million from a primary funding round. Subsequently, the company participated in a stock buyback, with the company valued at US$7.5 billion.<ref>{{cite web |author=Matt Mullenweg |date=August 16, 2021 |title=Funding, Buyback, and Hiring |url=https://ma.tt/2021/08/funding-buyback-hiring/}}</ref><br />
<br />
In February 2024, Automattic announced that it would begin selling user data from Tumblr and [[WordPress.com]] to [[Midjourney]] and [[OpenAI]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cole |first=Samantha |date=2024-02-27 |title=Tumblr and WordPress to Sell Users’ Data to Train AI Tools |url=https://www.404media.co/tumblr-and-wordpress-to-sell-users-data-to-train-ai-tools/ |access-date=2024-02-28 |website=404 Media |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Products==<br />
Some notable Automattic brands and products include:<br />
<br />
* [[WordPress.com]] – blog host, created in 2005<br />
* [[Akismet]] – anti-[[spam (electronic)|comment spam]] system capable of integration with many blogging platforms and forums, created in 2005<br />
* [[Gravatar]] – globally recognized avatars, acquired 2007<ref>{{Cite web |date=2007-10-18 |title=Automattic Acquires Gravatar |url=https://techcrunch.com/2007/10/17/automattic-acquires-gravatar/ |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
* [[BuddyPress]] – social networking plugin suite, acquired September 2008 and given to the WordPress Foundation in 2010<ref name=trademark /><br />
* IntenseDebate – acquired September 2008<ref name="intensedebate.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.intensedebate.com/blog/2008/09/23/automattic-acquires-intensedebate/|title=Automattic Acquires IntenseDebate|date=23 September 2008|access-date=24 January 2018}}</ref> <br />
* PollDaddy – acquired November 2008<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.polldaddy.com/2008/10/15/automattic-acquires-polldaddy/|title=Automattic Acquires PollDaddy!|date=15 October 2008|access-date=24 January 2018}}</ref><br />
* [[Simplenote]] – note-taking and sync service, acquired in 2013<br />
* Longreads – acquired in 2014<ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=http://blog.longreads.com/post/longreads-is-joining-the-automattic-family/|title=Longreads Is Joining the Automattic&nbsp;Family|date=9 April 2014|access-date=24 January 2018}}</ref><br />
* [[WooCommerce]] – eCommerce plugin for WordPress with a marketplace for extensions, acquired in 2015<ref>{{cite web|url=https://woocommerce.com/posts/woothemes-joins-automattic/|title=WooThemes Joins Automattic|date=19 May 2015|access-date=24 January 2018}}</ref><br />
* [[Atavist]] – multimedia publishing platform and magazine, acquired in 2018<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/automattic-parent-company-of-wordpresscom-acquires-atavist-publishing-platform-and-award-winning-magazine-300670176.html|title=Automattic, Parent Company of WordPress.com, Acquires Atavist Publishing Platform and Award-Winning Magazine|date=June 21, 2018|work=PR Newswire|access-date=June 22, 2018}}</ref><br />
* Prospress – WooCommerce extension developer, acquired in May 2019<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shepherd |first=Brent |date=May 22, 2019 |title=A Final Prospress Post… |url=https://prospress.com/final-prospress-post/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190524041827/https://prospress.com/final-prospress-post/ |archive-date=2019-05-24 |access-date=September 22, 2021 |website=Prospress Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Dillet |first=Romain |date=May 23, 2019 |title=Automattic acquires subscription payment company Prospress |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/05/23/automattic-acquires-subscription-payment-company-prospress/ |access-date=September 22, 2021 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref> <br />
* Jetpack [[Customer relationship management|CRM]] – acquired in August 2019, renamed from "Zero BS CRM"<ref>{{cite press release |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/automattic-acquires-wordpress-plugin-zbs-crm-300902856.html |title=Zero BS CRM acquired |date=August 16, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2020-07-20 |title=Introducing Jetpack CRM: Grow Your Business Through Better Contact Management |url=https://jetpack.com/2020/07/20/introducing-jetpack-crm/ |url-status=live |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200721034933/https://jetpack.com/2020/07/20/introducing-jetpack-crm/ |archivedate=2020-07-21 |accessdate=2021-08-17 |work=Jetpack |publisher=Automattic}}</ref><br />
* [[Tumblr]] – Microblogging platform, acquired in 2019<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://wptavern.com/automattic-acquires-tumblr-plans-to-rebuild-the-backend-powered-by-wordpress|title=Automattic Acquires Tumblr, Plans to Rebuild the Backend Powered by WordPress|date=August 13, 2019}}</ref><br />
* [[Parse.ly]] – web analytics tools, acquired in February 2021<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-02-08 |title=Parse.ly & Automattic |url=https://ma.tt/2021/02/parse-ly-automattic/ |access-date=2021-02-09 |website=Matt Mullenweg |language=en-US}}</ref> <br />
* [[Day One (app)|Day One]] – personal journaling app, acquired in June 2021<ref>{{Cite web |title=WordPress.com owner Automattic acquires journaling app Day One |url=https://social.techcrunch.com/2021/06/14/wordpress-com-owner-automattic-acquires-journaling-app-day-one/ |access-date=2021-06-14 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
* Pocket Casts – podcast client, acquired in July 2021<ref>{{cite web |date=16 July 2021 |title=Popular Podcast App Pocket Casts Joins Automattic – WordPress.com News |url=https://wordpress.com/blog/2021/07/16/popular-podcast-app-pocket-casts-joins-automattic/}}</ref><br />
* Texts.com – messaging app, acquired in October 2023<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-10-24 |title=Automattic is acquiring Texts and betting big on the future of messaging |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/24/23928685/automattic-texts-acquisition-universal-messaging |access-date=2023-10-24 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
* Beeper – [[Matrix (protocol)|matrix]] client and bridging service, acquired April 2024<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
{{Commons category-inline}}<br />
*{{Official website|https://automattic.com/}}<br />
*{{OpenCorp|Automattic}}<br />
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{{Automattic Inc.}}<br />
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{{Authority control}}<br />
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[[Category:Automattic| ]]<br />
[[Category:2005 establishments in California]]<br />
[[Category:American companies established in 2005]]<br />
[[Category:Companies based in San Francisco]]<br />
[[Category:Free software companies]]<br />
[[Category:Privately held companies based in California]]<br />
[[Category:Remote companies]]<br />
[[Category:Software companies based in the San Francisco Bay Area]]<br />
[[Category:Software companies established in 2005]]<br />
[[Category:Software companies of the United States]]<br />
[[Category:WordPress]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Matrix_(protocol)&diff=1191528464Matrix (protocol)2023-12-24T02:50:14Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed typo</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Networking protocol for real-time communication and data synchronization}}<br />
{{Other uses|Matrix (disambiguation)}}<br />
{{self-published|date=February 2019}}<br />
{{Infobox networking protocol<br />
| title = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|Q22906785|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
| logo = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|P154|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
| logo alt = [matrix]<br />
| logo size = 220px<br />
| is stack = no<br />
| purpose = Federated messaging and data synchronization<br />
| developer = The Matrix.org Foundation [[community interest company|CIC]]<br />
| date = {{Start date and age|2014|09}}<ref name="Ermoshina-2016"/>{{Failed verification|date=July 2020|reason=p. 247: 'Matrix.org, released in December 2014'}}<br />
| based on = [[HTTP]], [[WebRTC]]<br />
| influenced =<br />
| osilayer = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|P5805|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
|ports={{#invoke:Wikidata|getRawValue|P1641|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}}}<br />
'''Matrix''' (sometimes stylized as ['''matrix''']) is an [[open standard]] and [[communication protocol]] for real-time communication.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-10-27 |title=What Is the Matrix Protocol and How Does It Work? |url=https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-matrix-protocol-how-does-it-work/ |access-date=2023-07-24 |website=MUO |language=en}}</ref> It aims to make real-time communication work seamlessly between different service providers, in the way that standard [[Simple Mail Transfer Protocol]] email currently does for [[Store and forward|store-and-forward]] email service, by allowing users with accounts at one [[communications service provider]] to communicate with users of a different service provider via [[online chat]], [[voice over IP]], and [[videotelephony]]. It therefore serves a similar purpose to protocols like [[XMPP]], but is not based on any existing communication protocol.<br />
<br />
From a technical perspective, it is an [[application layer]] [[communication protocol]] for [[Federation (information technology)|federated]] real-time communication. It provides HTTP APIs and [[open source]] [[Reference implementation|reference implementations]] for securely distributing and persisting messages in [[JSON]] format over an open federation of servers.<ref name="lwn"/><ref name="drdobbs"/> It can integrate with standard [[web service]]s via [[WebRTC]], facilitating browser-to-browser applications.<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
The initial project was created inside [[Amdocs]], while building a chat tool called "Amdocs Unified Communications",<ref name="AmdocsUC" /> by Matthew Hodgson and {{Interlanguage link|Amandine Le Pape|fr}}. Amdocs then funded most of the development work from 2014 to October 2017.<ref name="blog 2019-02-20" /> Matrix was the winner of the Innovation award at WebRTC 2014 Conference & Expo,<ref name="award">{{cite news|url=http://blog.uppersideconferences.com/award-winners-webrtc-2014-conference-expo/#.VZBLdbIVhBc|title=Award Winners of the WebRTC 2014 Conference & Expo|date=2014-12-23|work=Upperside Blog|access-date=2015-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315032553/http://blog.uppersideconferences.com/award-winners-webrtc-2014-conference-expo/#.VZBLdbIVhBc|archive-date=2015-03-15|url-status=dead}}</ref> and of the "Best in Show" award at WebRTC World in 2015.<ref name="Edholm 2015" /> The protocol received praise mixed with some cautionary notes after it launched in 2014. Reviewers noted that other attempts at defining an open [[instant messaging]] or multimedia [[signalling protocol]] of this type had difficulties becoming widely adopted—e.g. [[XMPP]] and [[IRCv3]]—and have highlighted the challenges involved, both technological and political.<ref name="Prokop 2015" /> Some were unclear if there was enough demand among users for services which interoperate among providers.<ref name="Scales 2015" /><ref name="citeworld" /> In 2015, a [[subsidiary]] of Amdocs was created, named "Vector Creations Limited", and the Matrix staff was moved there.<ref name="Linkedin" /><br />
<br />
In July 2017, the funding by Amdocs was announced to be cut and in the following weeks the core team created their own [[United Kingdom|UK]]-based company, "New Vector Limited",<ref name="companieshouse vector" /> which was mainly built to support the development of Matrix and Riot, which was later renamed to [[Element (software)|Element]].<ref name="vector.im" /> During this time period, there were multiple calls for support to the community and companies that build on Matrix,<ref name="blog 2017-07-07" /> to help pay for the wages of at least part of the core team. [[Patreon]] and [[Liberapay]] crowdfunding accounts were created,<ref name="Patreon" /> and the core team started a [[Video Podcast|video podcast]], called Matrix "Live" to keep the contributors up to speed with ongoing developments.<ref name="Matrix Live 1" /> This was expanded by a weekly [[blog]] format, called "This Week in Matrix", where interested community members could read, or submit their own, Matrix-related news.<ref name="matrix week" /> The company was created with the goal of offering [[IT consultancy|consultancy]] services for Matrix and paid hosting of Matrix servers (as a platform called modular.im, which was later renamed to [[Element (software)|Element matrix services]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Element Secure instant messenger {{!}} Riot.im download {{!}} End-to-end messages encryption and open network|url=https://element.io/previously-riot|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Element}}</ref>) to generate income.<ref name="modular.im" /><br />
<br />
In the early weeks after its creation, the Matrix team and the company [[Purism (company)|Purism]] published plans to collaborate in the creation of the [[Librem]] 5 phone.<ref name="Armasu 2018" /> The Librem 5 was intended to be a Matrix native phone, where the default pre-installed messaging and caller app should use Matrix for audio and video calls and instant messaging.<ref name="Purism shop" /><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[KDE]] announced it was working on including support for the protocol in its IRC client [[Konversation]].<ref name="Konversation 2017" /><br />
<br />
In late January 2018, the company received an investment of US$5 million from Status,'''<ref name="Rogers 2018" /><ref name="Status 2018" />''' an [[Ethereum]] based [[Startup company|startup]].<br />
<br />
In April 2018, the [[Government of France|French Government]] announced plans to create their own instant messaging tool.<ref name="Rosemain 2018" /> Work on the application based on Riot and Matrix protocol—called {{ill|Tchap|fr}} after French scientist [[Claude Chappe]]—had started in early 2018,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.solutions-numeriques.com/securite/letat-lance-un-telegram-a-la-francaise-cet-ete-ouvert-a-tous/|title=L'Etat lance un "Telegram" à la française cet été, ouvert à tous|last=Kaminsky|first=Jean|date=2018-04-22|website=Solutions Numériques|language=fr-FR|access-date=2019-12-28|quote=Après 3 mois de développement pour un coût très limité [...]}}</ref> and the program was open-sourced and released on iOS and Android in April 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/french-government-releases-in-house-im-app-to-replace-whatsapp-and-telegram-use/|title=French government releases in-house IM app to replace WhatsApp and Telegram use|last=Cimpanu|first=Catalin|website=ZDNet|language=en|access-date=2019-12-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2018, a [[Community Interest Company]] called "The Matrix.org Foundation C.I.C."<ref name="companieshouse foundation" /> was incorporated, to serve as a neutral legal entity for further development of the standard.<ref name="blog 2018-10-29" /><br />
<br />
In February 2019, the KDE community announced plans to adopt Matrix for its internal communications needs, as a decentralized alternative to other instant messaging servers like [[Telegram (software)|Telegram]], [[Slack (software)|Slack]], and [[Discord (software)|Discord]], and operate its own server instance.<ref name="Larabel 2019" /><br />
<br />
In April 2019, Matrix.org suffered a security breach in which the production servers were compromised.<ref name="Breach Apr 2019" /><br />
This breach was not an issue with the Matrix protocol and did not directly affect home servers other than matrix.org.<br />
<br />
In June 2019, the Matrix protocol is out of beta with the version 1.0 across all APIs (and Synapse, at the time the reference home server), and the Matrix foundation is officially launched.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/06/11/introducing-matrix-1-0-and-the-matrix-org-foundation|title=Introducing Matrix 1.0 and the Matrix.org Foundation|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/06/11/synapse-1-0-0-released/|title = Synapse 1.0.0 released|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2019, New Vector raised an additional US$8.5 million to develop Matrix.<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 October 2019 |title=New Vector scores $8.5M to plug more users into its open, decentralized messaging Matrix |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/10/10/new-vector-scores-8-5m-to-plug-more-users-into-its-open-decentralized-messaging-matrix/ |access-date=2019-12-18 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}{{Dead link|date=August 2023|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2019, [[Federal Ministry of Defence (Germany)|German Ministry of Defense]] announced a pilot project called BwMessenger for secure instant messaging tool based on Matrix protocol, Synapse server and Riot application. This is modeled after French Tchap project. The long-term goal of the Federal Government is the secure use of messenger services that covers all ministries and subordinate authorities.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.heise.de/newsticker/meldung/Open-Source-Bundeswehr-baut-eigene-verschluesselte-Messenger-App-4623404.html|title=Open Source: Bundeswehr baut eigene verschlüsselte Messenger-App|last=online|first=heise|website=[[Heise (company)|heise]] online|date=24 December 2019 |language=de|access-date=2019-12-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2019, [[Mozilla]] announced that it would begin to use Matrix as a replacement for [[IRC]]. In the announcement, they said that they would be completing the move in late January 2020. The Mozilla IRC server, irc.mozilla.org, is said to be removed "no later than March of next year [2020]".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://discourse.mozilla.org/t/synchronous-messaging-at-mozilla-the-decision/50620|title = Synchronous Messaging at Mozilla: The Decision|date = 19 December 2019}}</ref> In March 2020, the IRC server was turned off and users were directed to join chat.mozilla.org, Mozilla's Element instance.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Moznet IRC is dead; long live Mozilla Matrix!|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/03/03/moznet-irc-is-dead-long-live-mozilla-matrix|access-date=2020-10-31|website=Matrix blog|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2020, Matrix enabled [[end-to-end encryption]] by default for private conversations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/05/06/cross-signing-and-end-to-end-encryption-by-default-is-here|title=Cross-signing and End-to-end Encryption by Default is HERE!!!|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2020, [[Element (software)|Element]] acquired [[Gitter]] from [[GitLab]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-30|title=Gitter is joining Element|url=https://element.io/blog/gitter-is-joining-element/|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Element Blog}}</ref> This meant that all Gitter users would be transitioned over to Matrix.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Welcoming Gitter to Matrix!|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/09/30/welcoming-gitter-to-matrix|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Matrix blog|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In March 2021, matrix.org announced that there are 28 million global visible accounts.<ref>{{cite web |title=FOSDEM 2021: Building massive virtual communities in Matrix |website = [[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzUfS08lMek&t=265s |access-date=31 March 2021 |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In September 2022, some security issues were found in the implementation of one client-side encryption library.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022>{{Cite web |url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/09/28/upgrade-now-to-address-encryption-vulns-in-matrix-sdks-and-clients|title=Upgrade now to address E2EE vulnerabilities in matrix-js-sdk, matrix-ios-sdk and matrix-android-sdk2|language=en-US}}</ref> Due to the interoperable architecture, only the affected client applications needed upgrade and third-party implementations were not affected.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022/> All critical issues were fixed, with the remaining ones being either non-exploitable in practice, or already prominently warned for in the client.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022/><br />
<br />
In June 2023, Beeper became the first member of The Matrix Foundation.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2023/06/beeper-joins-the-foundation/}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Protocol ==<br />
[[File:Diagramme Matrix en.svg|thumb|right|Matrix network]]<br />
<br />
Matrix targets use cases like [[voice over IP]], [[Internet of Things]] and [[instant messaging]], including group communication, along with a longer-term goal to be a generic messaging and data synchronization system for the web. The protocol supports security and replication, maintaining full conversation history, with no single points of control or failure. Existing communication services can integrate with the Matrix ecosystem.<ref name="lwn" /><br />
<br />
Client software is available for open-federated Instant Messaging (IM), voice over IP (VoIP) and Internet of Things (IoT) communication.<br />
<br />
The Matrix standard specifies [[REST]]ful HTTP APIs for securely transmitting and replicating JSON data between Matrix-capable clients, servers and services. Clients send data by [[HTTP PUT|PUT]]ing it to a ‘room’ on their server, which then replicates the data over all the Matrix servers participating in this ‘room’. This data is signed using a git-style signature to mitigate tampering, and the federated traffic is encrypted with HTTPS and signed with each server's private key to avoid spoofing. Replication follows [[eventual consistency]] semantics, allowing servers to function even if offline or after data-loss by re-synchronizing missing history from other participating servers.<br />
<br />
The Olm library provides for optional [[end-to-end encryption]] on a room-by-room basis via a [[Double Ratchet Algorithm]] implementation.<ref name="Ermoshina-2016"/> It can ensure that conversation [[data at rest]] is only readable by the room participants. With it configured, data transmitted over Matrix is only visible as [[ciphertext]] to the Matrix servers, and can be decrypted only by authorized participants in the room. The encryption protocol is called Olm; Megolm is an expansion of Olm to better suit the need for bigger rooms. There are two main implementations:<br />
* vodozemac, the current reference implementation, written in [[Rust (programming language)|Rust]]. In 2022, it has been audited by [[Least Authority]], whose findings are publicly available<ref>{{cite web |url=https://leastauthority.com/static/publications/LeastAuthority-Matrix_vodozemac_Final_Audit_Report.pdf |title=Archived copy |website=leastauthority.com |access-date=22 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220516164237/https://leastauthority.com/static/publications/LeastAuthority-Matrix_vodozemac_Final_Audit_Report.pdf |archive-date=16 May 2022 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and have been addressed by the Matrix team.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/05/16/independent-public-audit-of-vodozemac-a-native-rust-reference-implementation-of-matrix-end-to-end-encryption | title=Independent public audit of Vodozemac, a native Rust reference implementation of Matrix end-to-end encryption |website=Matrix blog}}</ref> The review was partially funded by Germany's national agency for the healthcare system digitalisation ({{ill|Gematik|de}}).<br />
* libolm, the former reference implementation, has been subject of a cryptographic review by [[NCC Group]], whose findings are publicly available,<ref name="Balducci Meredith 2016"/> and have been addressed by the Matrix team.<ref name="blog 2016-11-21"/> The review was sponsored by the [[Open Technology Fund]].<br />
<br />
== Bridges ==<br />
Matrix supports bridging messages from different chat applications into Matrix rooms. These bridges are programs that run on the server and communicate with the non-Matrix servers. Bridges can either be acting as puppets or relays, where in the former the individual user's account is visibly posting the messages, and in the latter a bot posts the messages for non-puppeteered user accounts.<br />
<br />
Currently there are official bridges for:<br />
* [[Gitter]]<ref name="Gitter"/><br />
* [[Internet Relay Chat|IRC]]<ref name="IRC"/><br />
* [[Slack (software)|Slack]]/[[Mattermost]]<ref name="Slack"/><br />
* [[XMPP]]<ref name="XMPP"/><br />
<br />
Bridges for the following notable applications are maintained by the community:<br />
<br />
{{Div col}}<br />
* [[iMessage|Apple iMessage]]<br />
* [[Discord]]<ref name="Discord"/><br />
* [[Email]]<br />
* [[Facebook Messenger]]<ref name="Facebook"/><br />
* [[Google Hangouts]]<br />
* [[GroupMe]]<br />
* [[Mastodon (software)|Mastodon]]<br />
* [[RSS]]/[[Twitter]] feeds<br />
* [[Signal (software)|Signal]]<ref name="Signal"/><br />
* [[Skype]]<ref name="Skype"/><br />
* [[Telegram (software)|Telegram]]<ref name="Telegram"/><br />
* [[SMS]]<br />
* [[WeChat]]<br />
* [[WhatsApp|Whatsapp]]<ref name="WhatsApp"/><br />
* [[LinkedIn]]<ref name="LinkedIn"/><br />
{{Div col end}}<br />
<br />
== Clients ==<br />
[[Element (software)|Element]] is the reference implementation of a client. The following client implementations exist; a possibly more complete list can be found on [https://matrix.org/clients Matrix's website]:<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+ Client Implementations<br />
|-<br />
! Project !! Main Language !! Comment<br />
!Platforms<br />
!Status<br />
!Repository<br />
|-<br />
|Cinny<br />
|JavaScript<br />
|Focuses primarily on having a simple and secure interface; written in [[React (software)|React]] on the top of matrix-js-sdk<br />
|Web and desktop<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/ajbura/cinny GitHub: ajbura/cinny]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Element (software)|Element]]<br />
|JavaScript<br />
|Made by the matrix.org core team<br />
|Web, desktop, iOS, and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/vector-im/element-web GitHub: vector-im/element-web]<br />
|-<br />
|FluffyChat<br />
|Dart<br />
|Written in [[Flutter (software)|Flutter]]<br />
|Web, desktop, iOS, and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/krille-chan/fluffychat GitHub: krille-chan/fluffychat]<br />
|-<br />
|[[GNOME Fractal|Fractal]]<br />
|Rust<br />
|<br />
|[[GNOME|GNOME desktop]]<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/fractal GitLab: GNOME/fractal]<br />
|-<br />
|NeoChat<br />
|C++<br />
|[[Fork (software development)|Fork]] of Spectral, using KDE frameworks, most notably Kirigami,<br />
KConfig and KI18n<br />
|Desktop, [[Plasma Mobile]], and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://invent.kde.org/network/neochat Kde: network/neochat]<br />
|-<br />
|Nheko<br />
|C++<br />
|made using [[Qt (software)|Qt]] and [[C++17]]<br />
|Desktop (Linux, macOS, Windows and others<ref>{{Cite web |title=nheko-reborn.github.io |url=https://nheko-reborn.github.io/ |access-date=2022-12-29 |website=nheko-reborn.github.io}}</ref>)<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/Nheko-Reborn/nheko GitHub: Nheko-Reborn/nheko]<br />
|-<br />
|Quaternion<br />
|C++<br />
|cross-platform Qt5-based client, a reference desktop application using Quotient<br />
|Desktop (macOS, Windows, Linux and others<ref>{{Cite web |title=GitHub: quotient-im/Quaternion |website=[[GitHub]] |url=https://github.com/quotient-im/Quaternion}}</ref>)<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/quotient-im/Quaternion GitHub: quotient-im/Quaternion]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Servers ==<br />
Synapse is the reference implementation of a Matrix home server, written in [[Python (programming language)|Python]].<ref name="Synapse"/><br />
A "second generation Matrix home server"<ref name="Dendrite Quote"/> called Dendrite is being developed by the Matrix core team. Dendrite is in [[Beta release|beta]].<br />
<br />
The following server implementations exist; a possibly more complete list can be found on Matrix's website:<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+ Server Implementations<br />
|-<br />
! Project !! Main Language !! Comment<br />
!Status<br />
!Repository<br />
|-<br />
|Synapse<ref name="Synapse" /><br />
|Python<br />
|Synapse is a Matrix "homeserver" implementation developed by the matrix.org core team, written in Python 3/Twisted.<br />
|Production ready<br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-org/synapse GitHub: matrix-org/synapse]<br />
|-<br />
|Dendrite<br />
|Go<br />
|Dendrite is a second-generation Matrix homeserver written in Go. It intends to provide an efficient, reliable and scalable alternative to Synapse.<br />
|Beta<br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-org/dendrite GitHub: matrix-org/dendrite]<br />
|-<br />
| Construct<ref name="Construct" />|| C++<br />
|Construct is a performance-oriented homeserver with minimal dependencies.<br />
<br />
It is the first actively federating Matrix server developed independently by the community.<br />
|Beta (since 2020-04-28)<ref>{{Cite web|title=About the server · matrix-construct/construct Wiki|website=[[GitHub]] |url=https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct/wiki/About-the-server|access-date=2021-12-28|language=en|quote=Entered beta-testing stage around 2020-04-28.}}</ref><br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct GitHub: matrix-construct/construct]<br />
|-<br />
| Conduit<ref>{{Cite web|title=Famedly / Conduit|url=https://gitlab.com/famedly/conduit|access-date=2020-11-01|website=GitLab|language=en}}</ref> || Rust<br />
|An efficient Matrix homeserver that aims to be easy to set up and just work.<br />
It is designed to run on low-powered mini computers such as a Raspberry Pi to host for a user's "friends, family, or company."<br />
|Beta (since 2021-09-01)<br />
|[https://gitlab.com/famedly/conduit GitLab: famedly/conduit]<br />
|-<br />
| Mascarene<ref name="Mascarene" /> || Scala<br />
|Mascarene is an open source homeserver implementation of the Matrix protocol.<br />
|Under development<br />
|[https://gitlab.com/mascarene/mascarene GitLab: mascarene/mascarene]<br />
|-<br />
|Ligase<br />
|Go<br />
|Ligase is a Golang-based implementation of Matrix home server, following the Matrix spec as defined at matrix.org.<br />
<br />
It has been used in production by an array of financial institutions in various scenarios.{{Primary source inline|date=December 2022}}<br />
|Production ready<br />
|[https://github.com/finogeeks/Ligase GitHub: finogeeks/Ligase]<br />
|-<br />
|Maelstrom<br />
|Rust<br />
|A high-performance Matrix Home-Server written in Rust designed to have a plugable storage engine, scalable, and light on resources.<br />
|Appears to be dead. No commit since 2020<br />
|[https://github.com/maelstrom-rs/maelstrom GitHub: maelstrom-rs/maelstrom]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Adoption ==<br />
Communication among the public agents of France's central administration happens on a Matrix-based internal network, named {{ill|Tchap|fr}}.<br />
<ref>{{cite web |url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/document/french-government-launches-house-developed-messaging-service-tchap|title=French government launches in-house developed messaging|website=European Commission}}</ref><br />
The project is developed by the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs ({{ill|DINUM|fr}}) with the explicit goals of security and [[digital sovereignty]], both of which were deemed to be impossible through WhatsApp, Telegram and Slack.<br />
<ref>{{cite web |url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/tchap-messaging-service|title=Open Source Software powering the newly developed internal messaging service of the French government.|website=European Commission|date=18 October 2019 }}</ref><br />
<br />
Germany's national healthcare system's internal communication network uses a Matrix-based<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gematik.de/anwendungen/ti-messenger|title=TI-Messenger &#124; gematik|website=www.gematik.de}}</ref><br />
system (''Ti-Messenger'') for real-time communication among Germany's healthcare organizations and sharing of sensitive patient data, and is developed by the national agency for the digitalisation of the healthcare system ({{ill|Gematik|de}} GmbH).<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2021/07/21/germanys-national-healthcare-system-adopts-matrix | title=Germany's national healthcare system adopts Matrix! |website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
Reasons for choosing Matrix included [[federated identity]] management, which allows to reuse the existing identity infrastructure into the new chat system; the decentralized architecture, which allows cross-linking data from disparate sources; and the open protocol, which ensures interoperability and future-proof data exchange and prevents [[vendor lock-in]].<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/german-health-system-adopts-matrix|title=German health professionals will communicate with each other through the open source Matrix protocol|date=6 August 2021 }}</ref><br />
<br />
Employees of the [[Bundeswehr]] (Germany's armed forces) communicate with each other, and share classified documents (German [[Classified information#Table of equivalent classification markings in various countries|VS-NfD]]), on a private Matrix network, with a customized version of the Matrix Element app.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://element.io/case-studies/bundeswehr | title=Bundeswehr &#124; BwMessenger &#124; Matrix &#124; Defence case study }}</ref><br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/matrix-pilot-bwmessenger | title=German armed forces testing open source chat| date=16 January 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
Luxembourg has developed a Matrix-based chat service for government officials, named Luxchat4Gov, planned to be released in the second quartal of 2023.<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/luxembourg-launches-open-source-chat-officials-and-citizens|title=Luxembourg launches open source chat for officials and citizens|date=16 February 2023 }}</ref><br />
<br />
The [[Swedish Social Insurance Agency]] (''Försäkringskassan'') is using Matrix for internal communications.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://element.io/blog/dsam-och-esam-forordar-matrix-for-saker-och-federerad-kommunikation-inom-sveriges-offentliga-sektor/|title=dSam and eSam endorse Matrix for secure and federated communications in the Swedish public sector|date=December 2022 }}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Rocket.Chat]] is based on Matrix since version 4.7.0.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/05/30/welcoming-rocket-chat-to-matrix| title=Welcoming Rocket.Chat to Matrix!}}</ref><br />
It is used in private networks of public governmental offices, private companies and NGOs, across the world.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.rocket.chat/customers|title=Organizations which choose Rocket.Chat}}</ref><br />
<br />
The [[FOSDEM]] was held on Matrix in 2021<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.fosdem.org/2021/practical/matrix_troubleshooting/|title=Troubleshooting Matrix at FOSDEM 2021}}</ref><br />
and 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-14 |title=FOSDEM 2022's communication infrastructure was provided by Element Matrix Services |url=https://element.io/blog/fosdem-2022s-communication-infrastructure-was-provided-by-element-matrix-services/ |access-date=2023-01-25 |website=Element Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.fosdem.org/2022/practical/matrix_troubleshooting/|title=Troubleshooting Matrix at FOSDEM 2022}}</ref><br />
The hosting was provided by Element Matrix Services, which published the technical details for public review soon after the event for 2021<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2021/02/15/how-we-hosted-fosdem-2021-on-matrix|title=How we hosted FOSDEM 2021 on Matrix}}</ref><br />
and 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/02/07/hosting-fosdem-2022-on-matrix|title=Hosting FOSDEM 2022 on Matrix}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[Fediverse]]<br />
* [[XMPP]]<br />
* [[Session Initiation Protocol]] (SIP)<br />
* [[Rich Communication Services]]<br />
* [[IRC]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|refs=<br />
<ref name="Ermoshina-2016">{{cite conference|last1=Ermoshina |first1=Ksenia |last2=Musiani |first2=Francesca |last3=Halpin |first3=Harry|editor=Bagnoli, Franco|display-editors=etal|pages=244–254 |title=End-to-End Encrypted Messaging Protocols: An Overview|series=Lecture Notes in Computer Science |book-title=Internet Science |publisher=Springer |location=Florence, Italy |conference=INSCI 2016 |doi=10.1007/978-3-319-45982-0_22 |isbn=978-3-319-45982-0 |date=September 2016 |volume=9934 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="lwn">{{cite news | url=https://lwn.net/Articles/632572/ | title=Matrix: a new specification for federated realtime chat | author=Nathan Willis | work=[[LWN.net]] | date=2015-02-11 | access-date=2015-06-28 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="drdobbs">{{cite news | url=http://www.drdobbs.com/tools/240169004 | author=Adrian Bridgwater | title=Matrix.org Reloads Inside "Illusion of Control" Vortex | work=[[Dr. Dobb's Journal]] | date=2014-09-09 | access-date=2015-07-20 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Prokop 2015">{{cite news | url=https://www.nojitter.com/solving-webrtc-interoperability-problem | author=Andrew Prokop | title=Solving the WebRTC Interoperability Problem - Post | work= No Jitter | date=2015-02-23 | access-date=2015-06-28 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Scales 2015">{{cite news | url=https://www.telecomtv.com/articles/standards/to-interop-or-not-to-interop-is-matrix-org-the-answer-for-silo-d-comms-services-12444/ | author= Ian Scales| title=To interop or not to interop? Is Matrix.org the answer for silo'd comms services? | work= TelecomTV | date=2015-05-11 | access-date=2015-06-22 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="citeworld">{{cite news | url=https://www.itworld.com/article/2694500/ | author=Matt Weinberger | title=Matrix wants to smash the walled gardens of messaging | work=ITworld | date=2014-09-16 | access-date=2015-07-20 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Konversation 2017">https://blogs.kde.org/2017/09/05/konversation-2x-2018-new-user-interface-matrix-support-mobile-version{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Larabel 2019">{{cite web | title=KDE To Support Matrix Decentralized Instant Messaging | author=Michael Larabel | website=Phoronix | date=2019-02-20 | url=https://phoronix.com/scan.php?page=news_item&px=KDE-Matrix-Support | access-date=2019-02-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="AmdocsUC">{{Cite web|url=http://www.amdocs.com:80/Products/digital-lifestyle-services/Pages/unified-communications.aspx|title=Unified Communications|website=amdocs|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141003202858/http://www.amdocs.com/Products/digital-lifestyle-services/Pages/unified-communications.aspx|archive-date=2014-10-03|url-status=dead|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2019-02-20">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/who-is-matrix-org/|title=Who is Matrix.org?|website=matrix.org|date=2019-02-20|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329152401/https://matrix.org/blog/who-is-matrix-org/|archive-date=2019-03-29|url-status=dead}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Linkedin">{{Cite web|url=https://www.linkedin.com/company/vector-creations-ltd.|title=Linkedin entry for Vector Creations Limited|access-date=2018-10-22}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Edholm 2015">{{cite news|url=http://www.webrtcworld.com/topics/from-the-experts/articles/403607-webrtc-world-miami-wrap-up-review.htm|title=WebRTC World Miami Wrap Up and Review|author=Phil Edholm|date=2015-05-18|work=WebRTC|access-date=2015-06-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="companieshouse vector">{{cite news | url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/10873661 | title=Free company information from Companies House (UK Government) | access-date=2018-07-30 |website=[[Companies House]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="vector.im">{{Cite web|url=https://vector.im/|title=New Vector - We believe the future will be open and decentralized|website=New Vector|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2017-07-07">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2017/07/07/a-call-to-arms-supporting-matrix/|title=A Call to Arms: Supporting Matrix!|website=matrix.org|date=2017-07-07|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Patreon">{{Cite news|url=https://www.patreon.com/posts/hello-world-12867439|title=Hello world! {{!}} Matrix.org on Patreon|work=Patreon|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Matrix Live 1">{{Citation|author1=Matrixdotorg|title=Matrix Live - Episode 1: July 14th 2017|date=2017-07-21|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0n1xz4KRVE|access-date=2018-10-22}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="matrix week">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/category/this-week-in-matrix/|title=This Week in Matrix|website=matrix.org|access-date=2023-07-26}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="modular.im">{{Cite web|url=https://www.modular.im/|title=Awesome hosting for Matrix|website=www.modular.im|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Armasu 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://www.tomshardware.com/news/purism-librem-5-january-2019,37216.html|last=Armasu|first=Lucian|title=Purism's Privacy-Focused Librem 5 Smartphone's On Track For A Jan '19 Release|date=2018-06-06|work=Tom's Hardware|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Purism shop">{{Cite web|url=https://shop.puri.sm/shop/librem-5/|title=Librem 5 – A Security and Privacy Focused Phone|website=shop.puri.sm|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Rogers 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://venturebeat.com/2018/01/29/status-invests-5-million-in-matrix-to-create-a-blockchain-messaging-superpower/|title=Status invests $5 million in Matrix to create a blockchain messaging superpower|last=Rogers|first=Stewart|date=2018-01-29|work=VentureBeat|access-date=2018-10-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Status 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://blog.status.im/status-invests-5m-in-riot-im-4e3026a8bd50|title=Status Invests $5M In Riot.im|date=2018-01-29|work=Status Blog|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180130071553/https://blog.status.im/status-invests-5m-in-riot-im-4e3026a8bd50|archive-date=2018-01-30|url-status=dead}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Rosemain 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-france-privacy/france-builds-whatsapp-rival-due-to-surveillance-risk-idUSKBN1HN258|title=France builds WhatsApp rival due to surveillance risk|last=Rosemain|first=Mathieu|work=U.S.|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<!-- <ref name="blog 2018-04-26">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2018/04/26/matrix-and-riot-confirmed-as-the-basis-for-frances-secure-instant-messenger-app/|title=Matrix and Riot confirmed as the basis for France's Secure Instant Messenger app|website=matrix.org|date=2018-04-26|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref>--><br />
<br />
<ref name="companieshouse foundation">{{Cite web|url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/11648710|title=THE MATRIX.ORG FOUNDATION – Overview (free company information from Companies House)|website=[[Companies House]]|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2018-10-29">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2018/10/29/introducing-the-matrix-org-foundation-part-1-of-2/|title=Introducing the Matrix.org Foundation (Part 1 of 2)|website=matrix.org|date=2018-10-29|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Balducci Meredith 2016">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nccgroup.trust/us/our-research/matrix-olm-cryptographic-review/|title=Matrix Olm Cryptographic Review|author=Alex Balducci|author2=Jake Meredith|date=18 November 2016|website=www.nccgroup.trust|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020095212/https://www.nccgroup.trust/us/our-research/matrix-olm-cryptographic-review/|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2016-11-21">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2016/11/21/matrixs-olm-end-to-end-encryption-security-assessment-released-and-implemented-cross-platform-on-riot-at-last/|title=Matrix's 'Olm' End-to-end Encryption security assessment released – and implemented cross-platform on Riot at last!|website=matrix.org|date=2016-11-21|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Telegram">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-telegram|title=tulir/mautrix-telegram|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Discord">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/Half-Shot/matrix-appservice-discord|title=Half-Shot/matrix-appservice-discord|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Gitter">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-gitter|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-gitter|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20|date=2018-09-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Slack">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-slack|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-slack|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="IRC">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-irc|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-irc|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="WhatsApp">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-whatsapp|title=tulir/mautrix-whatsapp|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="XMPP">{{Citation|title=GitHub - matrix-org/matrix-appservice-purple: General purpose bridging using libpurple .|date=2018-12-29|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-purple|publisher=matrix.org|access-date=2018-12-31}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="LinkedIn">{{Cite web|url=https://gitlab.com/beeper/linkedin|title=beeper/linkedin|website=GitLab|access-date=2022-07-03}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=July 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Signal">{{Citation|title=A Matrix-Signal puppeting bridge|date=2021-02-06|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-signal|publisher=Tulir Asokan|access-date=2021-02-06}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2021}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Skype">{{Citation|title=skype-bridge|date=2020-05-16|url=https://github.com/matrix-hacks/matrix-puppet-skype|publisher=matrix.org|access-date=2020-05-16}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=May 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<!-- Not in use<br />
<ref name="client list">{{cite web|title=Try Matrix Now!|url=https://matrix.org/docs/projects/try-matrix-now.html|website=Matrix.org|access-date=13 August 2017}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
Not in use--><br />
<br />
<ref name="Breach Apr 2019">{{cite web|title=We have discovered and addressed a security breach|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/04/11/security-incident|website=Matrix.org|access-date=2019-04-12}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Facebook">{{cite web|title=tulir/mautrix-facebook|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-facebook|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Synapse">{{cite web|title=matrix-org/synapse|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/synapse|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Dendrite Quote">{{cite web|title=matrix-org/dendrite|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/dendrite|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Construct">{{cite web|title=matrix-construct/construct|url=https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Mascarene">{{cite web|title=mascarene/mascarene|url=https://gitlab.com/mascarene/mascarene|website=Gitlab|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* {{Official website}}<br />
* [https://matrix.org/docs/spec/ Specification]<br />
* {{GitHub|matrix-org}}<br />
<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
{{telecommunications}}<br />
{{Computer-mediated communication}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Application layer protocols]]<br />
[[Category:Communication]]<br />
[[Category:Computer-related introductions in 2014]]<br />
[[Category:Protocols related to Internet Relay Chat]]<br />
[[Category:VoIP protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Matrix_(protocol)&diff=1191528329Matrix (protocol)2023-12-24T02:48:46Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Networking protocol for real-time communication and data synchronization}}<br />
{{Other uses|Matrix (disambiguation)}}<br />
{{self-published|date=February 2019}}<br />
{{Infobox networking protocol<br />
| title = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|Q22906785|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
| logo = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|P154|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
| logo alt = [matrix]<br />
| logo size = 220px<br />
| is stack = no<br />
| purpose = Federated messaging and data synchronization<br />
| developer = The Matrix.org Foundation [[community interest company|CIC]]<br />
| date = {{Start date and age|2014|09}}<ref name="Ermoshina-2016"/>{{Failed verification|date=July 2020|reason=p. 247: 'Matrix.org, released in December 2014'}}<br />
| based on = [[HTTP]], [[WebRTC]]<br />
| influenced =<br />
| osilayer = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|P5805|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
|ports={{#invoke:Wikidata|getRawValue|P1641|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}}}<br />
'''Matrix''' (sometimes stylized as ['''matrix''']) is an [[open standard]] and [[communication protocol]] for real-time communication.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-10-27 |title=What Is the Matrix Protocol and How Does It Work? |url=https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-matrix-protocol-how-does-it-work/ |access-date=2023-07-24 |website=MUO |language=en}}</ref> It aims to make real-time communication work seamlessly between different service providers, in the way that standard [[Simple Mail Transfer Protocol]] email currently does for [[Store and forward|store-and-forward]] email service, by allowing users with accounts at one [[communications service provider]] to communicate with users of a different service provider via [[online chat]], [[voice over IP]], and [[videotelephony]]. It therefore serves a similar purpose to protocols like [[XMPP]], but is not based on any existing communication protocol.<br />
<br />
From a technical perspective, it is an [[application layer]] [[communication protocol]] for [[Federation (information technology)|federated]] real-time communication. It provides HTTP APIs and [[open source]] [[Reference implementation|reference implementations]] for securely distributing and persisting messages in [[JSON]] format over an open federation of servers.<ref name="lwn"/><ref name="drdobbs"/> It can integrate with standard [[web service]]s via [[WebRTC]], facilitating browser-to-browser applications.<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
The initial project was created inside [[Amdocs]], while building a chat tool called "Amdocs Unified Communications",<ref name="AmdocsUC" /> by Matthew Hodgson and {{Interlanguage link|Amandine Le Pape|fr}}. Amdocs then funded most of the development work from 2014 to October 2017.<ref name="blog 2019-02-20" /> Matrix was the winner of the Innovation award at WebRTC 2014 Conference & Expo,<ref name="award">{{cite news|url=http://blog.uppersideconferences.com/award-winners-webrtc-2014-conference-expo/#.VZBLdbIVhBc|title=Award Winners of the WebRTC 2014 Conference & Expo|date=2014-12-23|work=Upperside Blog|access-date=2015-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315032553/http://blog.uppersideconferences.com/award-winners-webrtc-2014-conference-expo/#.VZBLdbIVhBc|archive-date=2015-03-15|url-status=dead}}</ref> and of the "Best in Show" award at WebRTC World in 2015.<ref name="Edholm 2015" /> The protocol received praise mixed with some cautionary notes after it launched in 2014. Reviewers noted that other attempts at defining an open [[instant messaging]] or multimedia [[signalling protocol]] of this type had difficulties becoming widely adopted—e.g. [[XMPP]] and [[IRCv3]]—and have highlighted the challenges involved, both technological and political.<ref name="Prokop 2015" /> Some were unclear if there was enough demand among users for services which interoperate among providers.<ref name="Scales 2015" /><ref name="citeworld" /> In 2015, a [[subsidiary]] of Amdocs was created, named "Vector Creations Limited", and the Matrix staff was moved there.<ref name="Linkedin" /><br />
<br />
In July 2017, the funding by Amdocs was announced to be cut and in the following weeks the core team created their own [[United Kingdom|UK]]-based company, "New Vector Limited",<ref name="companieshouse vector" /> which was mainly built to support the development of Matrix and Riot, which was later renamed to [[Element (software)|Element]].<ref name="vector.im" /> During this time period, there were multiple calls for support to the community and companies that build on Matrix,<ref name="blog 2017-07-07" /> to help pay for the wages of at least part of the core team. [[Patreon]] and [[Liberapay]] crowdfunding accounts were created,<ref name="Patreon" /> and the core team started a [[Video Podcast|video podcast]], called Matrix "Live" to keep the contributors up to speed with ongoing developments.<ref name="Matrix Live 1" /> This was expanded by a weekly [[blog]] format, called "This Week in Matrix", where interested community members could read, or submit their own, Matrix-related news.<ref name="matrix week" /> The company was created with the goal of offering [[IT consultancy|consultancy]] services for Matrix and paid hosting of Matrix servers (as a platform called modular.im, which was later renamed to [[Element (software)|Element matrix services]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Element Secure instant messenger {{!}} Riot.im download {{!}} End-to-end messages encryption and open network|url=https://element.io/previously-riot|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Element}}</ref>) to generate income.<ref name="modular.im" /><br />
<br />
In the early weeks after its creation, the Matrix team and the company [[Purism (company)|Purism]] published plans to collaborate in the creation of the [[Librem]] 5 phone.<ref name="Armasu 2018" /> The Librem 5 was intended to be a Matrix native phone, where the default pre-installed messaging and caller app should use Matrix for audio and video calls and instant messaging.<ref name="Purism shop" /><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[KDE]] announced it was working on including support for the protocol in its IRC client [[Konversation]].<ref name="Konversation 2017" /><br />
<br />
In late January 2018, the company received an investment of US$5 million from Status,'''<ref name="Rogers 2018" /><ref name="Status 2018" />''' an [[Ethereum]] based [[Startup company|startup]].<br />
<br />
In April 2018, the [[Government of France|French Government]] announced plans to create their own instant messaging tool.<ref name="Rosemain 2018" /> Work on the application based on Riot and Matrix protocol—called {{ill|Tchap|fr}} after French scientist [[Claude Chappe]]—had started in early 2018,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.solutions-numeriques.com/securite/letat-lance-un-telegram-a-la-francaise-cet-ete-ouvert-a-tous/|title=L'Etat lance un "Telegram" à la française cet été, ouvert à tous|last=Kaminsky|first=Jean|date=2018-04-22|website=Solutions Numériques|language=fr-FR|access-date=2019-12-28|quote=Après 3 mois de développement pour un coût très limité [...]}}</ref> and the program was open-sourced and released on iOS and Android in April 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/french-government-releases-in-house-im-app-to-replace-whatsapp-and-telegram-use/|title=French government releases in-house IM app to replace WhatsApp and Telegram use|last=Cimpanu|first=Catalin|website=ZDNet|language=en|access-date=2019-12-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2018, a [[Community Interest Company]] called "The Matrix.org Foundation C.I.C."<ref name="companieshouse foundation" /> was incorporated, to serve as a neutral legal entity for further development of the standard.<ref name="blog 2018-10-29" /><br />
<br />
In February 2019, the KDE community announced plans to adopt Matrix for its internal communications needs, as a decentralized alternative to other instant messaging servers like [[Telegram (software)|Telegram]], [[Slack (software)|Slack]], and [[Discord (software)|Discord]], and operate its own server instance.<ref name="Larabel 2019" /><br />
<br />
In April 2019, Matrix.org suffered a security breach in which the production servers were compromised.<ref name="Breach Apr 2019" /><br />
This breach was not an issue with the Matrix protocol and did not directly affect home servers other than matrix.org.<br />
<br />
In June 2019, the Matrix protocol is out of beta with the version 1.0 across all APIs (and Synapse, at the time the reference home server), and the Matrix foundation is officially launched.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/06/11/introducing-matrix-1-0-and-the-matrix-org-foundation|title=Introducing Matrix 1.0 and the Matrix.org Foundation|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/06/11/synapse-1-0-0-released/|title = Synapse 1.0.0 released|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2019, New Vector raised an additional US$8.5 million to develop Matrix.<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 October 2019 |title=New Vector scores $8.5M to plug more users into its open, decentralized messaging Matrix |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/10/10/new-vector-scores-8-5m-to-plug-more-users-into-its-open-decentralized-messaging-matrix/ |access-date=2019-12-18 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}{{Dead link|date=August 2023|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2019, [[Federal Ministry of Defence (Germany)|German Ministry of Defense]] announced a pilot project called BwMessenger for secure instant messaging tool based on Matrix protocol, Synapse server and Riot application. This is modeled after French Tchap project. The long-term goal of the Federal Government is the secure use of messenger services that covers all ministries and subordinate authorities.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.heise.de/newsticker/meldung/Open-Source-Bundeswehr-baut-eigene-verschluesselte-Messenger-App-4623404.html|title=Open Source: Bundeswehr baut eigene verschlüsselte Messenger-App|last=online|first=heise|website=[[Heise (company)|heise]] online|date=24 December 2019 |language=de|access-date=2019-12-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2019, [[Mozilla]] announced that it would begin to use Matrix as a replacement for [[IRC]]. In the announcement, they said that they would be completing the move in late January 2020. The Mozilla IRC server, irc.mozilla.org, is said to be removed "no later than March of next year [2020]".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://discourse.mozilla.org/t/synchronous-messaging-at-mozilla-the-decision/50620|title = Synchronous Messaging at Mozilla: The Decision|date = 19 December 2019}}</ref> In March 2020, the IRC server was turned off and users were directed to join chat.mozilla.org, Mozilla's Element instance.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Moznet IRC is dead; long live Mozilla Matrix!|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/03/03/moznet-irc-is-dead-long-live-mozilla-matrix|access-date=2020-10-31|website=Matrix blog|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2020, Matrix enabled [[end-to-end encryption]] by default for private conversations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/05/06/cross-signing-and-end-to-end-encryption-by-default-is-here|title=Cross-signing and End-to-end Encryption by Default is HERE!!!|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2020, [[Element (software)|Element]] acquired [[Gitter]] from [[GitLab]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-30|title=Gitter is joining Element|url=https://element.io/blog/gitter-is-joining-element/|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Element Blog}}</ref> This meant that all Gitter users would be transitioned over to Matrix.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Welcoming Gitter to Matrix!|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/09/30/welcoming-gitter-to-matrix|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Matrix blog|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In March 2021, matrix.org announced that there are 28 million global visible accounts.<ref>{{cite web |title=FOSDEM 2021: Building massive virtual communities in Matrix |website = [[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzUfS08lMek&t=265s |access-date=31 March 2021 |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In September 2022, some security issues were found in the implementation of one client-side encryption library.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022>{{Cite web |url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/09/28/upgrade-now-to-address-encryption-vulns-in-matrix-sdks-and-clients|title=Upgrade now to address E2EE vulnerabilities in matrix-js-sdk, matrix-ios-sdk and matrix-android-sdk2|language=en-US}}</ref> Due to the interoperable architecture, only the affected client applications needed upgrade and third-party implementations were not affected.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022/> All critical issues were fixed, with the remaining ones being either non-exploitable in practice, or already prominently warned for in the client.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022/><br />
<br />
In June 2023, Beeper became the first member of The Matrix Foundation.<ref>{{cite web=https://matrix.org/blog/2023/06/beeper-joins-the-foundation/}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Protocol ==<br />
[[File:Diagramme Matrix en.svg|thumb|right|Matrix network]]<br />
<br />
Matrix targets use cases like [[voice over IP]], [[Internet of Things]] and [[instant messaging]], including group communication, along with a longer-term goal to be a generic messaging and data synchronization system for the web. The protocol supports security and replication, maintaining full conversation history, with no single points of control or failure. Existing communication services can integrate with the Matrix ecosystem.<ref name="lwn" /><br />
<br />
Client software is available for open-federated Instant Messaging (IM), voice over IP (VoIP) and Internet of Things (IoT) communication.<br />
<br />
The Matrix standard specifies [[REST]]ful HTTP APIs for securely transmitting and replicating JSON data between Matrix-capable clients, servers and services. Clients send data by [[HTTP PUT|PUT]]ing it to a ‘room’ on their server, which then replicates the data over all the Matrix servers participating in this ‘room’. This data is signed using a git-style signature to mitigate tampering, and the federated traffic is encrypted with HTTPS and signed with each server's private key to avoid spoofing. Replication follows [[eventual consistency]] semantics, allowing servers to function even if offline or after data-loss by re-synchronizing missing history from other participating servers.<br />
<br />
The Olm library provides for optional [[end-to-end encryption]] on a room-by-room basis via a [[Double Ratchet Algorithm]] implementation.<ref name="Ermoshina-2016"/> It can ensure that conversation [[data at rest]] is only readable by the room participants. With it configured, data transmitted over Matrix is only visible as [[ciphertext]] to the Matrix servers, and can be decrypted only by authorized participants in the room. The encryption protocol is called Olm; Megolm is an expansion of Olm to better suit the need for bigger rooms. There are two main implementations:<br />
* vodozemac, the current reference implementation, written in [[Rust (programming language)|Rust]]. In 2022, it has been audited by [[Least Authority]], whose findings are publicly available<ref>{{cite web |url=https://leastauthority.com/static/publications/LeastAuthority-Matrix_vodozemac_Final_Audit_Report.pdf |title=Archived copy |website=leastauthority.com |access-date=22 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220516164237/https://leastauthority.com/static/publications/LeastAuthority-Matrix_vodozemac_Final_Audit_Report.pdf |archive-date=16 May 2022 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and have been addressed by the Matrix team.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/05/16/independent-public-audit-of-vodozemac-a-native-rust-reference-implementation-of-matrix-end-to-end-encryption | title=Independent public audit of Vodozemac, a native Rust reference implementation of Matrix end-to-end encryption |website=Matrix blog}}</ref> The review was partially funded by Germany's national agency for the healthcare system digitalisation ({{ill|Gematik|de}}).<br />
* libolm, the former reference implementation, has been subject of a cryptographic review by [[NCC Group]], whose findings are publicly available,<ref name="Balducci Meredith 2016"/> and have been addressed by the Matrix team.<ref name="blog 2016-11-21"/> The review was sponsored by the [[Open Technology Fund]].<br />
<br />
== Bridges ==<br />
Matrix supports bridging messages from different chat applications into Matrix rooms. These bridges are programs that run on the server and communicate with the non-Matrix servers. Bridges can either be acting as puppets or relays, where in the former the individual user's account is visibly posting the messages, and in the latter a bot posts the messages for non-puppeteered user accounts.<br />
<br />
Currently there are official bridges for:<br />
* [[Gitter]]<ref name="Gitter"/><br />
* [[Internet Relay Chat|IRC]]<ref name="IRC"/><br />
* [[Slack (software)|Slack]]/[[Mattermost]]<ref name="Slack"/><br />
* [[XMPP]]<ref name="XMPP"/><br />
<br />
Bridges for the following notable applications are maintained by the community:<br />
<br />
{{Div col}}<br />
* [[iMessage|Apple iMessage]]<br />
* [[Discord]]<ref name="Discord"/><br />
* [[Email]]<br />
* [[Facebook Messenger]]<ref name="Facebook"/><br />
* [[Google Hangouts]]<br />
* [[GroupMe]]<br />
* [[Mastodon (software)|Mastodon]]<br />
* [[RSS]]/[[Twitter]] feeds<br />
* [[Signal (software)|Signal]]<ref name="Signal"/><br />
* [[Skype]]<ref name="Skype"/><br />
* [[Telegram (software)|Telegram]]<ref name="Telegram"/><br />
* [[SMS]]<br />
* [[WeChat]]<br />
* [[WhatsApp|Whatsapp]]<ref name="WhatsApp"/><br />
* [[LinkedIn]]<ref name="LinkedIn"/><br />
{{Div col end}}<br />
<br />
== Clients ==<br />
[[Element (software)|Element]] is the reference implementation of a client. The following client implementations exist; a possibly more complete list can be found on [https://matrix.org/clients Matrix's website]:<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+ Client Implementations<br />
|-<br />
! Project !! Main Language !! Comment<br />
!Platforms<br />
!Status<br />
!Repository<br />
|-<br />
|Cinny<br />
|JavaScript<br />
|Focuses primarily on having a simple and secure interface; written in [[React (software)|React]] on the top of matrix-js-sdk<br />
|Web and desktop<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/ajbura/cinny GitHub: ajbura/cinny]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Element (software)|Element]]<br />
|JavaScript<br />
|Made by the matrix.org core team<br />
|Web, desktop, iOS, and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/vector-im/element-web GitHub: vector-im/element-web]<br />
|-<br />
|FluffyChat<br />
|Dart<br />
|Written in [[Flutter (software)|Flutter]]<br />
|Web, desktop, iOS, and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/krille-chan/fluffychat GitHub: krille-chan/fluffychat]<br />
|-<br />
|[[GNOME Fractal|Fractal]]<br />
|Rust<br />
|<br />
|[[GNOME|GNOME desktop]]<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/fractal GitLab: GNOME/fractal]<br />
|-<br />
|NeoChat<br />
|C++<br />
|[[Fork (software development)|Fork]] of Spectral, using KDE frameworks, most notably Kirigami,<br />
KConfig and KI18n<br />
|Desktop, [[Plasma Mobile]], and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://invent.kde.org/network/neochat Kde: network/neochat]<br />
|-<br />
|Nheko<br />
|C++<br />
|made using [[Qt (software)|Qt]] and [[C++17]]<br />
|Desktop (Linux, macOS, Windows and others<ref>{{Cite web |title=nheko-reborn.github.io |url=https://nheko-reborn.github.io/ |access-date=2022-12-29 |website=nheko-reborn.github.io}}</ref>)<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/Nheko-Reborn/nheko GitHub: Nheko-Reborn/nheko]<br />
|-<br />
|Quaternion<br />
|C++<br />
|cross-platform Qt5-based client, a reference desktop application using Quotient<br />
|Desktop (macOS, Windows, Linux and others<ref>{{Cite web |title=GitHub: quotient-im/Quaternion |website=[[GitHub]] |url=https://github.com/quotient-im/Quaternion}}</ref>)<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/quotient-im/Quaternion GitHub: quotient-im/Quaternion]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Servers ==<br />
Synapse is the reference implementation of a Matrix home server, written in [[Python (programming language)|Python]].<ref name="Synapse"/><br />
A "second generation Matrix home server"<ref name="Dendrite Quote"/> called Dendrite is being developed by the Matrix core team. Dendrite is in [[Beta release|beta]].<br />
<br />
The following server implementations exist; a possibly more complete list can be found on Matrix's website:<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+ Server Implementations<br />
|-<br />
! Project !! Main Language !! Comment<br />
!Status<br />
!Repository<br />
|-<br />
|Synapse<ref name="Synapse" /><br />
|Python<br />
|Synapse is a Matrix "homeserver" implementation developed by the matrix.org core team, written in Python 3/Twisted.<br />
|Production ready<br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-org/synapse GitHub: matrix-org/synapse]<br />
|-<br />
|Dendrite<br />
|Go<br />
|Dendrite is a second-generation Matrix homeserver written in Go. It intends to provide an efficient, reliable and scalable alternative to Synapse.<br />
|Beta<br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-org/dendrite GitHub: matrix-org/dendrite]<br />
|-<br />
| Construct<ref name="Construct" />|| C++<br />
|Construct is a performance-oriented homeserver with minimal dependencies.<br />
<br />
It is the first actively federating Matrix server developed independently by the community.<br />
|Beta (since 2020-04-28)<ref>{{Cite web|title=About the server · matrix-construct/construct Wiki|website=[[GitHub]] |url=https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct/wiki/About-the-server|access-date=2021-12-28|language=en|quote=Entered beta-testing stage around 2020-04-28.}}</ref><br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct GitHub: matrix-construct/construct]<br />
|-<br />
| Conduit<ref>{{Cite web|title=Famedly / Conduit|url=https://gitlab.com/famedly/conduit|access-date=2020-11-01|website=GitLab|language=en}}</ref> || Rust<br />
|An efficient Matrix homeserver that aims to be easy to set up and just work.<br />
It is designed to run on low-powered mini computers such as a Raspberry Pi to host for a user's "friends, family, or company."<br />
|Beta (since 2021-09-01)<br />
|[https://gitlab.com/famedly/conduit GitLab: famedly/conduit]<br />
|-<br />
| Mascarene<ref name="Mascarene" /> || Scala<br />
|Mascarene is an open source homeserver implementation of the Matrix protocol.<br />
|Under development<br />
|[https://gitlab.com/mascarene/mascarene GitLab: mascarene/mascarene]<br />
|-<br />
|Ligase<br />
|Go<br />
|Ligase is a Golang-based implementation of Matrix home server, following the Matrix spec as defined at matrix.org.<br />
<br />
It has been used in production by an array of financial institutions in various scenarios.{{Primary source inline|date=December 2022}}<br />
|Production ready<br />
|[https://github.com/finogeeks/Ligase GitHub: finogeeks/Ligase]<br />
|-<br />
|Maelstrom<br />
|Rust<br />
|A high-performance Matrix Home-Server written in Rust designed to have a plugable storage engine, scalable, and light on resources.<br />
|Appears to be dead. No commit since 2020<br />
|[https://github.com/maelstrom-rs/maelstrom GitHub: maelstrom-rs/maelstrom]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Adoption ==<br />
Communication among the public agents of France's central administration happens on a Matrix-based internal network, named {{ill|Tchap|fr}}.<br />
<ref>{{cite web |url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/document/french-government-launches-house-developed-messaging-service-tchap|title=French government launches in-house developed messaging|website=European Commission}}</ref><br />
The project is developed by the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs ({{ill|DINUM|fr}}) with the explicit goals of security and [[digital sovereignty]], both of which were deemed to be impossible through WhatsApp, Telegram and Slack.<br />
<ref>{{cite web |url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/tchap-messaging-service|title=Open Source Software powering the newly developed internal messaging service of the French government.|website=European Commission|date=18 October 2019 }}</ref><br />
<br />
Germany's national healthcare system's internal communication network uses a Matrix-based<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gematik.de/anwendungen/ti-messenger|title=TI-Messenger &#124; gematik|website=www.gematik.de}}</ref><br />
system (''Ti-Messenger'') for real-time communication among Germany's healthcare organizations and sharing of sensitive patient data, and is developed by the national agency for the digitalisation of the healthcare system ({{ill|Gematik|de}} GmbH).<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2021/07/21/germanys-national-healthcare-system-adopts-matrix | title=Germany's national healthcare system adopts Matrix! |website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
Reasons for choosing Matrix included [[federated identity]] management, which allows to reuse the existing identity infrastructure into the new chat system; the decentralized architecture, which allows cross-linking data from disparate sources; and the open protocol, which ensures interoperability and future-proof data exchange and prevents [[vendor lock-in]].<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/german-health-system-adopts-matrix|title=German health professionals will communicate with each other through the open source Matrix protocol|date=6 August 2021 }}</ref><br />
<br />
Employees of the [[Bundeswehr]] (Germany's armed forces) communicate with each other, and share classified documents (German [[Classified information#Table of equivalent classification markings in various countries|VS-NfD]]), on a private Matrix network, with a customized version of the Matrix Element app.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://element.io/case-studies/bundeswehr | title=Bundeswehr &#124; BwMessenger &#124; Matrix &#124; Defence case study }}</ref><br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/matrix-pilot-bwmessenger | title=German armed forces testing open source chat| date=16 January 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
Luxembourg has developed a Matrix-based chat service for government officials, named Luxchat4Gov, planned to be released in the second quartal of 2023.<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/luxembourg-launches-open-source-chat-officials-and-citizens|title=Luxembourg launches open source chat for officials and citizens|date=16 February 2023 }}</ref><br />
<br />
The [[Swedish Social Insurance Agency]] (''Försäkringskassan'') is using Matrix for internal communications.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://element.io/blog/dsam-och-esam-forordar-matrix-for-saker-och-federerad-kommunikation-inom-sveriges-offentliga-sektor/|title=dSam and eSam endorse Matrix for secure and federated communications in the Swedish public sector|date=December 2022 }}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Rocket.Chat]] is based on Matrix since version 4.7.0.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/05/30/welcoming-rocket-chat-to-matrix| title=Welcoming Rocket.Chat to Matrix!}}</ref><br />
It is used in private networks of public governmental offices, private companies and NGOs, across the world.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.rocket.chat/customers|title=Organizations which choose Rocket.Chat}}</ref><br />
<br />
The [[FOSDEM]] was held on Matrix in 2021<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.fosdem.org/2021/practical/matrix_troubleshooting/|title=Troubleshooting Matrix at FOSDEM 2021}}</ref><br />
and 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-14 |title=FOSDEM 2022's communication infrastructure was provided by Element Matrix Services |url=https://element.io/blog/fosdem-2022s-communication-infrastructure-was-provided-by-element-matrix-services/ |access-date=2023-01-25 |website=Element Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.fosdem.org/2022/practical/matrix_troubleshooting/|title=Troubleshooting Matrix at FOSDEM 2022}}</ref><br />
The hosting was provided by Element Matrix Services, which published the technical details for public review soon after the event for 2021<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2021/02/15/how-we-hosted-fosdem-2021-on-matrix|title=How we hosted FOSDEM 2021 on Matrix}}</ref><br />
and 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/02/07/hosting-fosdem-2022-on-matrix|title=Hosting FOSDEM 2022 on Matrix}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[Fediverse]]<br />
* [[XMPP]]<br />
* [[Session Initiation Protocol]] (SIP)<br />
* [[Rich Communication Services]]<br />
* [[IRC]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|refs=<br />
<ref name="Ermoshina-2016">{{cite conference|last1=Ermoshina |first1=Ksenia |last2=Musiani |first2=Francesca |last3=Halpin |first3=Harry|editor=Bagnoli, Franco|display-editors=etal|pages=244–254 |title=End-to-End Encrypted Messaging Protocols: An Overview|series=Lecture Notes in Computer Science |book-title=Internet Science |publisher=Springer |location=Florence, Italy |conference=INSCI 2016 |doi=10.1007/978-3-319-45982-0_22 |isbn=978-3-319-45982-0 |date=September 2016 |volume=9934 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="lwn">{{cite news | url=https://lwn.net/Articles/632572/ | title=Matrix: a new specification for federated realtime chat | author=Nathan Willis | work=[[LWN.net]] | date=2015-02-11 | access-date=2015-06-28 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="drdobbs">{{cite news | url=http://www.drdobbs.com/tools/240169004 | author=Adrian Bridgwater | title=Matrix.org Reloads Inside "Illusion of Control" Vortex | work=[[Dr. Dobb's Journal]] | date=2014-09-09 | access-date=2015-07-20 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Prokop 2015">{{cite news | url=https://www.nojitter.com/solving-webrtc-interoperability-problem | author=Andrew Prokop | title=Solving the WebRTC Interoperability Problem - Post | work= No Jitter | date=2015-02-23 | access-date=2015-06-28 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Scales 2015">{{cite news | url=https://www.telecomtv.com/articles/standards/to-interop-or-not-to-interop-is-matrix-org-the-answer-for-silo-d-comms-services-12444/ | author= Ian Scales| title=To interop or not to interop? Is Matrix.org the answer for silo'd comms services? | work= TelecomTV | date=2015-05-11 | access-date=2015-06-22 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="citeworld">{{cite news | url=https://www.itworld.com/article/2694500/ | author=Matt Weinberger | title=Matrix wants to smash the walled gardens of messaging | work=ITworld | date=2014-09-16 | access-date=2015-07-20 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Konversation 2017">https://blogs.kde.org/2017/09/05/konversation-2x-2018-new-user-interface-matrix-support-mobile-version{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Larabel 2019">{{cite web | title=KDE To Support Matrix Decentralized Instant Messaging | author=Michael Larabel | website=Phoronix | date=2019-02-20 | url=https://phoronix.com/scan.php?page=news_item&px=KDE-Matrix-Support | access-date=2019-02-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="AmdocsUC">{{Cite web|url=http://www.amdocs.com:80/Products/digital-lifestyle-services/Pages/unified-communications.aspx|title=Unified Communications|website=amdocs|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141003202858/http://www.amdocs.com/Products/digital-lifestyle-services/Pages/unified-communications.aspx|archive-date=2014-10-03|url-status=dead|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2019-02-20">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/who-is-matrix-org/|title=Who is Matrix.org?|website=matrix.org|date=2019-02-20|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329152401/https://matrix.org/blog/who-is-matrix-org/|archive-date=2019-03-29|url-status=dead}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
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<ref name="Linkedin">{{Cite web|url=https://www.linkedin.com/company/vector-creations-ltd.|title=Linkedin entry for Vector Creations Limited|access-date=2018-10-22}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Edholm 2015">{{cite news|url=http://www.webrtcworld.com/topics/from-the-experts/articles/403607-webrtc-world-miami-wrap-up-review.htm|title=WebRTC World Miami Wrap Up and Review|author=Phil Edholm|date=2015-05-18|work=WebRTC|access-date=2015-06-28}}</ref><br />
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<ref name="companieshouse vector">{{cite news | url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/10873661 | title=Free company information from Companies House (UK Government) | access-date=2018-07-30 |website=[[Companies House]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="vector.im">{{Cite web|url=https://vector.im/|title=New Vector - We believe the future will be open and decentralized|website=New Vector|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2017-07-07">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2017/07/07/a-call-to-arms-supporting-matrix/|title=A Call to Arms: Supporting Matrix!|website=matrix.org|date=2017-07-07|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Patreon">{{Cite news|url=https://www.patreon.com/posts/hello-world-12867439|title=Hello world! {{!}} Matrix.org on Patreon|work=Patreon|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Matrix Live 1">{{Citation|author1=Matrixdotorg|title=Matrix Live - Episode 1: July 14th 2017|date=2017-07-21|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0n1xz4KRVE|access-date=2018-10-22}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="matrix week">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/category/this-week-in-matrix/|title=This Week in Matrix|website=matrix.org|access-date=2023-07-26}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="modular.im">{{Cite web|url=https://www.modular.im/|title=Awesome hosting for Matrix|website=www.modular.im|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Armasu 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://www.tomshardware.com/news/purism-librem-5-january-2019,37216.html|last=Armasu|first=Lucian|title=Purism's Privacy-Focused Librem 5 Smartphone's On Track For A Jan '19 Release|date=2018-06-06|work=Tom's Hardware|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Purism shop">{{Cite web|url=https://shop.puri.sm/shop/librem-5/|title=Librem 5 – A Security and Privacy Focused Phone|website=shop.puri.sm|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Rogers 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://venturebeat.com/2018/01/29/status-invests-5-million-in-matrix-to-create-a-blockchain-messaging-superpower/|title=Status invests $5 million in Matrix to create a blockchain messaging superpower|last=Rogers|first=Stewart|date=2018-01-29|work=VentureBeat|access-date=2018-10-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Status 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://blog.status.im/status-invests-5m-in-riot-im-4e3026a8bd50|title=Status Invests $5M In Riot.im|date=2018-01-29|work=Status Blog|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180130071553/https://blog.status.im/status-invests-5m-in-riot-im-4e3026a8bd50|archive-date=2018-01-30|url-status=dead}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Rosemain 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-france-privacy/france-builds-whatsapp-rival-due-to-surveillance-risk-idUSKBN1HN258|title=France builds WhatsApp rival due to surveillance risk|last=Rosemain|first=Mathieu|work=U.S.|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<!-- <ref name="blog 2018-04-26">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2018/04/26/matrix-and-riot-confirmed-as-the-basis-for-frances-secure-instant-messenger-app/|title=Matrix and Riot confirmed as the basis for France's Secure Instant Messenger app|website=matrix.org|date=2018-04-26|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref>--><br />
<br />
<ref name="companieshouse foundation">{{Cite web|url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/11648710|title=THE MATRIX.ORG FOUNDATION – Overview (free company information from Companies House)|website=[[Companies House]]|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2018-10-29">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2018/10/29/introducing-the-matrix-org-foundation-part-1-of-2/|title=Introducing the Matrix.org Foundation (Part 1 of 2)|website=matrix.org|date=2018-10-29|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Balducci Meredith 2016">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nccgroup.trust/us/our-research/matrix-olm-cryptographic-review/|title=Matrix Olm Cryptographic Review|author=Alex Balducci|author2=Jake Meredith|date=18 November 2016|website=www.nccgroup.trust|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020095212/https://www.nccgroup.trust/us/our-research/matrix-olm-cryptographic-review/|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2016-11-21">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2016/11/21/matrixs-olm-end-to-end-encryption-security-assessment-released-and-implemented-cross-platform-on-riot-at-last/|title=Matrix's 'Olm' End-to-end Encryption security assessment released – and implemented cross-platform on Riot at last!|website=matrix.org|date=2016-11-21|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Telegram">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-telegram|title=tulir/mautrix-telegram|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Discord">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/Half-Shot/matrix-appservice-discord|title=Half-Shot/matrix-appservice-discord|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Gitter">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-gitter|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-gitter|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20|date=2018-09-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Slack">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-slack|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-slack|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="IRC">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-irc|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-irc|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="WhatsApp">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-whatsapp|title=tulir/mautrix-whatsapp|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="XMPP">{{Citation|title=GitHub - matrix-org/matrix-appservice-purple: General purpose bridging using libpurple .|date=2018-12-29|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-purple|publisher=matrix.org|access-date=2018-12-31}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="LinkedIn">{{Cite web|url=https://gitlab.com/beeper/linkedin|title=beeper/linkedin|website=GitLab|access-date=2022-07-03}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=July 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Signal">{{Citation|title=A Matrix-Signal puppeting bridge|date=2021-02-06|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-signal|publisher=Tulir Asokan|access-date=2021-02-06}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2021}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Skype">{{Citation|title=skype-bridge|date=2020-05-16|url=https://github.com/matrix-hacks/matrix-puppet-skype|publisher=matrix.org|access-date=2020-05-16}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=May 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<!-- Not in use<br />
<ref name="client list">{{cite web|title=Try Matrix Now!|url=https://matrix.org/docs/projects/try-matrix-now.html|website=Matrix.org|access-date=13 August 2017}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
Not in use--><br />
<br />
<ref name="Breach Apr 2019">{{cite web|title=We have discovered and addressed a security breach|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/04/11/security-incident|website=Matrix.org|access-date=2019-04-12}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Facebook">{{cite web|title=tulir/mautrix-facebook|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-facebook|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Synapse">{{cite web|title=matrix-org/synapse|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/synapse|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Dendrite Quote">{{cite web|title=matrix-org/dendrite|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/dendrite|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Construct">{{cite web|title=matrix-construct/construct|url=https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Mascarene">{{cite web|title=mascarene/mascarene|url=https://gitlab.com/mascarene/mascarene|website=Gitlab|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* {{Official website}}<br />
* [https://matrix.org/docs/spec/ Specification]<br />
* {{GitHub|matrix-org}}<br />
<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
{{telecommunications}}<br />
{{Computer-mediated communication}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Application layer protocols]]<br />
[[Category:Communication]]<br />
[[Category:Computer-related introductions in 2014]]<br />
[[Category:Protocols related to Internet Relay Chat]]<br />
[[Category:VoIP protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Matrix_(protocol)&diff=1191528280Matrix (protocol)2023-12-24T02:48:19Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Networking protocol for real-time communication and data synchronization}}<br />
{{Other uses|Matrix (disambiguation)}}<br />
{{self-published|date=February 2019}}<br />
{{Infobox networking protocol<br />
| title = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|Q22906785|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
| logo = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|P154|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
| logo alt = [matrix]<br />
| logo size = 220px<br />
| is stack = no<br />
| purpose = Federated messaging and data synchronization<br />
| developer = The Matrix.org Foundation [[community interest company|CIC]]<br />
| date = {{Start date and age|2014|09}}<ref name="Ermoshina-2016"/>{{Failed verification|date=July 2020|reason=p. 247: 'Matrix.org, released in December 2014'}}<br />
| based on = [[HTTP]], [[WebRTC]]<br />
| influenced =<br />
| osilayer = {{#invoke:Wikidata|getValue|P5805|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}<br />
|ports={{#invoke:Wikidata|getRawValue|P1641|FETCH_WIKIDATA}}}}<br />
'''Matrix''' (sometimes stylized as ['''matrix''']) is an [[open standard]] and [[communication protocol]] for real-time communication.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-10-27 |title=What Is the Matrix Protocol and How Does It Work? |url=https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-matrix-protocol-how-does-it-work/ |access-date=2023-07-24 |website=MUO |language=en}}</ref> It aims to make real-time communication work seamlessly between different service providers, in the way that standard [[Simple Mail Transfer Protocol]] email currently does for [[Store and forward|store-and-forward]] email service, by allowing users with accounts at one [[communications service provider]] to communicate with users of a different service provider via [[online chat]], [[voice over IP]], and [[videotelephony]]. It therefore serves a similar purpose to protocols like [[XMPP]], but is not based on any existing communication protocol.<br />
<br />
From a technical perspective, it is an [[application layer]] [[communication protocol]] for [[Federation (information technology)|federated]] real-time communication. It provides HTTP APIs and [[open source]] [[Reference implementation|reference implementations]] for securely distributing and persisting messages in [[JSON]] format over an open federation of servers.<ref name="lwn"/><ref name="drdobbs"/> It can integrate with standard [[web service]]s via [[WebRTC]], facilitating browser-to-browser applications.<br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
The initial project was created inside [[Amdocs]], while building a chat tool called "Amdocs Unified Communications",<ref name="AmdocsUC" /> by Matthew Hodgson and {{Interlanguage link|Amandine Le Pape|fr}}. Amdocs then funded most of the development work from 2014 to October 2017.<ref name="blog 2019-02-20" /> Matrix was the winner of the Innovation award at WebRTC 2014 Conference & Expo,<ref name="award">{{cite news|url=http://blog.uppersideconferences.com/award-winners-webrtc-2014-conference-expo/#.VZBLdbIVhBc|title=Award Winners of the WebRTC 2014 Conference & Expo|date=2014-12-23|work=Upperside Blog|access-date=2015-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315032553/http://blog.uppersideconferences.com/award-winners-webrtc-2014-conference-expo/#.VZBLdbIVhBc|archive-date=2015-03-15|url-status=dead}}</ref> and of the "Best in Show" award at WebRTC World in 2015.<ref name="Edholm 2015" /> The protocol received praise mixed with some cautionary notes after it launched in 2014. Reviewers noted that other attempts at defining an open [[instant messaging]] or multimedia [[signalling protocol]] of this type had difficulties becoming widely adopted—e.g. [[XMPP]] and [[IRCv3]]—and have highlighted the challenges involved, both technological and political.<ref name="Prokop 2015" /> Some were unclear if there was enough demand among users for services which interoperate among providers.<ref name="Scales 2015" /><ref name="citeworld" /> In 2015, a [[subsidiary]] of Amdocs was created, named "Vector Creations Limited", and the Matrix staff was moved there.<ref name="Linkedin" /><br />
<br />
In July 2017, the funding by Amdocs was announced to be cut and in the following weeks the core team created their own [[United Kingdom|UK]]-based company, "New Vector Limited",<ref name="companieshouse vector" /> which was mainly built to support the development of Matrix and Riot, which was later renamed to [[Element (software)|Element]].<ref name="vector.im" /> During this time period, there were multiple calls for support to the community and companies that build on Matrix,<ref name="blog 2017-07-07" /> to help pay for the wages of at least part of the core team. [[Patreon]] and [[Liberapay]] crowdfunding accounts were created,<ref name="Patreon" /> and the core team started a [[Video Podcast|video podcast]], called Matrix "Live" to keep the contributors up to speed with ongoing developments.<ref name="Matrix Live 1" /> This was expanded by a weekly [[blog]] format, called "This Week in Matrix", where interested community members could read, or submit their own, Matrix-related news.<ref name="matrix week" /> The company was created with the goal of offering [[IT consultancy|consultancy]] services for Matrix and paid hosting of Matrix servers (as a platform called modular.im, which was later renamed to [[Element (software)|Element matrix services]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Element Secure instant messenger {{!}} Riot.im download {{!}} End-to-end messages encryption and open network|url=https://element.io/previously-riot|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Element}}</ref>) to generate income.<ref name="modular.im" /><br />
<br />
In the early weeks after its creation, the Matrix team and the company [[Purism (company)|Purism]] published plans to collaborate in the creation of the [[Librem]] 5 phone.<ref name="Armasu 2018" /> The Librem 5 was intended to be a Matrix native phone, where the default pre-installed messaging and caller app should use Matrix for audio and video calls and instant messaging.<ref name="Purism shop" /><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[KDE]] announced it was working on including support for the protocol in its IRC client [[Konversation]].<ref name="Konversation 2017" /><br />
<br />
In late January 2018, the company received an investment of US$5 million from Status,'''<ref name="Rogers 2018" /><ref name="Status 2018" />''' an [[Ethereum]] based [[Startup company|startup]].<br />
<br />
In April 2018, the [[Government of France|French Government]] announced plans to create their own instant messaging tool.<ref name="Rosemain 2018" /> Work on the application based on Riot and Matrix protocol—called {{ill|Tchap|fr}} after French scientist [[Claude Chappe]]—had started in early 2018,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.solutions-numeriques.com/securite/letat-lance-un-telegram-a-la-francaise-cet-ete-ouvert-a-tous/|title=L'Etat lance un "Telegram" à la française cet été, ouvert à tous|last=Kaminsky|first=Jean|date=2018-04-22|website=Solutions Numériques|language=fr-FR|access-date=2019-12-28|quote=Après 3 mois de développement pour un coût très limité [...]}}</ref> and the program was open-sourced and released on iOS and Android in April 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/french-government-releases-in-house-im-app-to-replace-whatsapp-and-telegram-use/|title=French government releases in-house IM app to replace WhatsApp and Telegram use|last=Cimpanu|first=Catalin|website=ZDNet|language=en|access-date=2019-12-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2018, a [[Community Interest Company]] called "The Matrix.org Foundation C.I.C."<ref name="companieshouse foundation" /> was incorporated, to serve as a neutral legal entity for further development of the standard.<ref name="blog 2018-10-29" /><br />
<br />
In February 2019, the KDE community announced plans to adopt Matrix for its internal communications needs, as a decentralized alternative to other instant messaging servers like [[Telegram (software)|Telegram]], [[Slack (software)|Slack]], and [[Discord (software)|Discord]], and operate its own server instance.<ref name="Larabel 2019" /><br />
<br />
In April 2019, Matrix.org suffered a security breach in which the production servers were compromised.<ref name="Breach Apr 2019" /><br />
This breach was not an issue with the Matrix protocol and did not directly affect home servers other than matrix.org.<br />
<br />
In June 2019, the Matrix protocol is out of beta with the version 1.0 across all APIs (and Synapse, at the time the reference home server), and the Matrix foundation is officially launched.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/06/11/introducing-matrix-1-0-and-the-matrix-org-foundation|title=Introducing Matrix 1.0 and the Matrix.org Foundation|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/06/11/synapse-1-0-0-released/|title = Synapse 1.0.0 released|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2019, New Vector raised an additional US$8.5 million to develop Matrix.<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 October 2019 |title=New Vector scores $8.5M to plug more users into its open, decentralized messaging Matrix |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/10/10/new-vector-scores-8-5m-to-plug-more-users-into-its-open-decentralized-messaging-matrix/ |access-date=2019-12-18 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}{{Dead link|date=August 2023|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2019, [[Federal Ministry of Defence (Germany)|German Ministry of Defense]] announced a pilot project called BwMessenger for secure instant messaging tool based on Matrix protocol, Synapse server and Riot application. This is modeled after French Tchap project. The long-term goal of the Federal Government is the secure use of messenger services that covers all ministries and subordinate authorities.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.heise.de/newsticker/meldung/Open-Source-Bundeswehr-baut-eigene-verschluesselte-Messenger-App-4623404.html|title=Open Source: Bundeswehr baut eigene verschlüsselte Messenger-App|last=online|first=heise|website=[[Heise (company)|heise]] online|date=24 December 2019 |language=de|access-date=2019-12-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
In December 2019, [[Mozilla]] announced that it would begin to use Matrix as a replacement for [[IRC]]. In the announcement, they said that they would be completing the move in late January 2020. The Mozilla IRC server, irc.mozilla.org, is said to be removed "no later than March of next year [2020]".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://discourse.mozilla.org/t/synchronous-messaging-at-mozilla-the-decision/50620|title = Synchronous Messaging at Mozilla: The Decision|date = 19 December 2019}}</ref> In March 2020, the IRC server was turned off and users were directed to join chat.mozilla.org, Mozilla's Element instance.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Moznet IRC is dead; long live Mozilla Matrix!|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/03/03/moznet-irc-is-dead-long-live-mozilla-matrix|access-date=2020-10-31|website=Matrix blog|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2020, Matrix enabled [[end-to-end encryption]] by default for private conversations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/05/06/cross-signing-and-end-to-end-encryption-by-default-is-here|title=Cross-signing and End-to-end Encryption by Default is HERE!!!|website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2020, [[Element (software)|Element]] acquired [[Gitter]] from [[GitLab]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-30|title=Gitter is joining Element|url=https://element.io/blog/gitter-is-joining-element/|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Element Blog}}</ref> This meant that all Gitter users would be transitioned over to Matrix.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Welcoming Gitter to Matrix!|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2020/09/30/welcoming-gitter-to-matrix|access-date=2020-11-01|website=Matrix blog|language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In March 2021, matrix.org announced that there are 28 million global visible accounts.<ref>{{cite web |title=FOSDEM 2021: Building massive virtual communities in Matrix |website = [[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzUfS08lMek&t=265s |access-date=31 March 2021 |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In September 2022, some security issues were found in the implementation of one client-side encryption library.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022>{{Cite web |url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/09/28/upgrade-now-to-address-encryption-vulns-in-matrix-sdks-and-clients|title=Upgrade now to address E2EE vulnerabilities in matrix-js-sdk, matrix-ios-sdk and matrix-android-sdk2|language=en-US}}</ref> Due to the interoperable architecture, only the affected client applications needed upgrade and third-party implementations were not affected.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022/> All critical issues were fixed, with the remaining ones being either non-exploitable in practice, or already prominently warned for in the client.<ref name=security_issue_sep_2022/><br />
In June 2023, Beeper became the first member of The Matrix Foundation.<ref>{{cite web=https://matrix.org/blog/2023/06/beeper-joins-the-foundation/}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Protocol ==<br />
[[File:Diagramme Matrix en.svg|thumb|right|Matrix network]]<br />
<br />
Matrix targets use cases like [[voice over IP]], [[Internet of Things]] and [[instant messaging]], including group communication, along with a longer-term goal to be a generic messaging and data synchronization system for the web. The protocol supports security and replication, maintaining full conversation history, with no single points of control or failure. Existing communication services can integrate with the Matrix ecosystem.<ref name="lwn" /><br />
<br />
Client software is available for open-federated Instant Messaging (IM), voice over IP (VoIP) and Internet of Things (IoT) communication.<br />
<br />
The Matrix standard specifies [[REST]]ful HTTP APIs for securely transmitting and replicating JSON data between Matrix-capable clients, servers and services. Clients send data by [[HTTP PUT|PUT]]ing it to a ‘room’ on their server, which then replicates the data over all the Matrix servers participating in this ‘room’. This data is signed using a git-style signature to mitigate tampering, and the federated traffic is encrypted with HTTPS and signed with each server's private key to avoid spoofing. Replication follows [[eventual consistency]] semantics, allowing servers to function even if offline or after data-loss by re-synchronizing missing history from other participating servers.<br />
<br />
The Olm library provides for optional [[end-to-end encryption]] on a room-by-room basis via a [[Double Ratchet Algorithm]] implementation.<ref name="Ermoshina-2016"/> It can ensure that conversation [[data at rest]] is only readable by the room participants. With it configured, data transmitted over Matrix is only visible as [[ciphertext]] to the Matrix servers, and can be decrypted only by authorized participants in the room. The encryption protocol is called Olm; Megolm is an expansion of Olm to better suit the need for bigger rooms. There are two main implementations:<br />
* vodozemac, the current reference implementation, written in [[Rust (programming language)|Rust]]. In 2022, it has been audited by [[Least Authority]], whose findings are publicly available<ref>{{cite web |url=https://leastauthority.com/static/publications/LeastAuthority-Matrix_vodozemac_Final_Audit_Report.pdf |title=Archived copy |website=leastauthority.com |access-date=22 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220516164237/https://leastauthority.com/static/publications/LeastAuthority-Matrix_vodozemac_Final_Audit_Report.pdf |archive-date=16 May 2022 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and have been addressed by the Matrix team.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/05/16/independent-public-audit-of-vodozemac-a-native-rust-reference-implementation-of-matrix-end-to-end-encryption | title=Independent public audit of Vodozemac, a native Rust reference implementation of Matrix end-to-end encryption |website=Matrix blog}}</ref> The review was partially funded by Germany's national agency for the healthcare system digitalisation ({{ill|Gematik|de}}).<br />
* libolm, the former reference implementation, has been subject of a cryptographic review by [[NCC Group]], whose findings are publicly available,<ref name="Balducci Meredith 2016"/> and have been addressed by the Matrix team.<ref name="blog 2016-11-21"/> The review was sponsored by the [[Open Technology Fund]].<br />
<br />
== Bridges ==<br />
Matrix supports bridging messages from different chat applications into Matrix rooms. These bridges are programs that run on the server and communicate with the non-Matrix servers. Bridges can either be acting as puppets or relays, where in the former the individual user's account is visibly posting the messages, and in the latter a bot posts the messages for non-puppeteered user accounts.<br />
<br />
Currently there are official bridges for:<br />
* [[Gitter]]<ref name="Gitter"/><br />
* [[Internet Relay Chat|IRC]]<ref name="IRC"/><br />
* [[Slack (software)|Slack]]/[[Mattermost]]<ref name="Slack"/><br />
* [[XMPP]]<ref name="XMPP"/><br />
<br />
Bridges for the following notable applications are maintained by the community:<br />
<br />
{{Div col}}<br />
* [[iMessage|Apple iMessage]]<br />
* [[Discord]]<ref name="Discord"/><br />
* [[Email]]<br />
* [[Facebook Messenger]]<ref name="Facebook"/><br />
* [[Google Hangouts]]<br />
* [[GroupMe]]<br />
* [[Mastodon (software)|Mastodon]]<br />
* [[RSS]]/[[Twitter]] feeds<br />
* [[Signal (software)|Signal]]<ref name="Signal"/><br />
* [[Skype]]<ref name="Skype"/><br />
* [[Telegram (software)|Telegram]]<ref name="Telegram"/><br />
* [[SMS]]<br />
* [[WeChat]]<br />
* [[WhatsApp|Whatsapp]]<ref name="WhatsApp"/><br />
* [[LinkedIn]]<ref name="LinkedIn"/><br />
{{Div col end}}<br />
<br />
== Clients ==<br />
[[Element (software)|Element]] is the reference implementation of a client. The following client implementations exist; a possibly more complete list can be found on [https://matrix.org/clients Matrix's website]:<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+ Client Implementations<br />
|-<br />
! Project !! Main Language !! Comment<br />
!Platforms<br />
!Status<br />
!Repository<br />
|-<br />
|Cinny<br />
|JavaScript<br />
|Focuses primarily on having a simple and secure interface; written in [[React (software)|React]] on the top of matrix-js-sdk<br />
|Web and desktop<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/ajbura/cinny GitHub: ajbura/cinny]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Element (software)|Element]]<br />
|JavaScript<br />
|Made by the matrix.org core team<br />
|Web, desktop, iOS, and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/vector-im/element-web GitHub: vector-im/element-web]<br />
|-<br />
|FluffyChat<br />
|Dart<br />
|Written in [[Flutter (software)|Flutter]]<br />
|Web, desktop, iOS, and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/krille-chan/fluffychat GitHub: krille-chan/fluffychat]<br />
|-<br />
|[[GNOME Fractal|Fractal]]<br />
|Rust<br />
|<br />
|[[GNOME|GNOME desktop]]<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/fractal GitLab: GNOME/fractal]<br />
|-<br />
|NeoChat<br />
|C++<br />
|[[Fork (software development)|Fork]] of Spectral, using KDE frameworks, most notably Kirigami,<br />
KConfig and KI18n<br />
|Desktop, [[Plasma Mobile]], and Android<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://invent.kde.org/network/neochat Kde: network/neochat]<br />
|-<br />
|Nheko<br />
|C++<br />
|made using [[Qt (software)|Qt]] and [[C++17]]<br />
|Desktop (Linux, macOS, Windows and others<ref>{{Cite web |title=nheko-reborn.github.io |url=https://nheko-reborn.github.io/ |access-date=2022-12-29 |website=nheko-reborn.github.io}}</ref>)<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/Nheko-Reborn/nheko GitHub: Nheko-Reborn/nheko]<br />
|-<br />
|Quaternion<br />
|C++<br />
|cross-platform Qt5-based client, a reference desktop application using Quotient<br />
|Desktop (macOS, Windows, Linux and others<ref>{{Cite web |title=GitHub: quotient-im/Quaternion |website=[[GitHub]] |url=https://github.com/quotient-im/Quaternion}}</ref>)<br />
|Stable<br />
|[https://github.com/quotient-im/Quaternion GitHub: quotient-im/Quaternion]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Servers ==<br />
Synapse is the reference implementation of a Matrix home server, written in [[Python (programming language)|Python]].<ref name="Synapse"/><br />
A "second generation Matrix home server"<ref name="Dendrite Quote"/> called Dendrite is being developed by the Matrix core team. Dendrite is in [[Beta release|beta]].<br />
<br />
The following server implementations exist; a possibly more complete list can be found on Matrix's website:<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+ Server Implementations<br />
|-<br />
! Project !! Main Language !! Comment<br />
!Status<br />
!Repository<br />
|-<br />
|Synapse<ref name="Synapse" /><br />
|Python<br />
|Synapse is a Matrix "homeserver" implementation developed by the matrix.org core team, written in Python 3/Twisted.<br />
|Production ready<br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-org/synapse GitHub: matrix-org/synapse]<br />
|-<br />
|Dendrite<br />
|Go<br />
|Dendrite is a second-generation Matrix homeserver written in Go. It intends to provide an efficient, reliable and scalable alternative to Synapse.<br />
|Beta<br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-org/dendrite GitHub: matrix-org/dendrite]<br />
|-<br />
| Construct<ref name="Construct" />|| C++<br />
|Construct is a performance-oriented homeserver with minimal dependencies.<br />
<br />
It is the first actively federating Matrix server developed independently by the community.<br />
|Beta (since 2020-04-28)<ref>{{Cite web|title=About the server · matrix-construct/construct Wiki|website=[[GitHub]] |url=https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct/wiki/About-the-server|access-date=2021-12-28|language=en|quote=Entered beta-testing stage around 2020-04-28.}}</ref><br />
|[https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct GitHub: matrix-construct/construct]<br />
|-<br />
| Conduit<ref>{{Cite web|title=Famedly / Conduit|url=https://gitlab.com/famedly/conduit|access-date=2020-11-01|website=GitLab|language=en}}</ref> || Rust<br />
|An efficient Matrix homeserver that aims to be easy to set up and just work.<br />
It is designed to run on low-powered mini computers such as a Raspberry Pi to host for a user's "friends, family, or company."<br />
|Beta (since 2021-09-01)<br />
|[https://gitlab.com/famedly/conduit GitLab: famedly/conduit]<br />
|-<br />
| Mascarene<ref name="Mascarene" /> || Scala<br />
|Mascarene is an open source homeserver implementation of the Matrix protocol.<br />
|Under development<br />
|[https://gitlab.com/mascarene/mascarene GitLab: mascarene/mascarene]<br />
|-<br />
|Ligase<br />
|Go<br />
|Ligase is a Golang-based implementation of Matrix home server, following the Matrix spec as defined at matrix.org.<br />
<br />
It has been used in production by an array of financial institutions in various scenarios.{{Primary source inline|date=December 2022}}<br />
|Production ready<br />
|[https://github.com/finogeeks/Ligase GitHub: finogeeks/Ligase]<br />
|-<br />
|Maelstrom<br />
|Rust<br />
|A high-performance Matrix Home-Server written in Rust designed to have a plugable storage engine, scalable, and light on resources.<br />
|Appears to be dead. No commit since 2020<br />
|[https://github.com/maelstrom-rs/maelstrom GitHub: maelstrom-rs/maelstrom]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Adoption ==<br />
Communication among the public agents of France's central administration happens on a Matrix-based internal network, named {{ill|Tchap|fr}}.<br />
<ref>{{cite web |url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/document/french-government-launches-house-developed-messaging-service-tchap|title=French government launches in-house developed messaging|website=European Commission}}</ref><br />
The project is developed by the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs ({{ill|DINUM|fr}}) with the explicit goals of security and [[digital sovereignty]], both of which were deemed to be impossible through WhatsApp, Telegram and Slack.<br />
<ref>{{cite web |url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/tchap-messaging-service|title=Open Source Software powering the newly developed internal messaging service of the French government.|website=European Commission|date=18 October 2019 }}</ref><br />
<br />
Germany's national healthcare system's internal communication network uses a Matrix-based<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gematik.de/anwendungen/ti-messenger|title=TI-Messenger &#124; gematik|website=www.gematik.de}}</ref><br />
system (''Ti-Messenger'') for real-time communication among Germany's healthcare organizations and sharing of sensitive patient data, and is developed by the national agency for the digitalisation of the healthcare system ({{ill|Gematik|de}} GmbH).<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2021/07/21/germanys-national-healthcare-system-adopts-matrix | title=Germany's national healthcare system adopts Matrix! |website=Matrix blog}}</ref><br />
Reasons for choosing Matrix included [[federated identity]] management, which allows to reuse the existing identity infrastructure into the new chat system; the decentralized architecture, which allows cross-linking data from disparate sources; and the open protocol, which ensures interoperability and future-proof data exchange and prevents [[vendor lock-in]].<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/german-health-system-adopts-matrix|title=German health professionals will communicate with each other through the open source Matrix protocol|date=6 August 2021 }}</ref><br />
<br />
Employees of the [[Bundeswehr]] (Germany's armed forces) communicate with each other, and share classified documents (German [[Classified information#Table of equivalent classification markings in various countries|VS-NfD]]), on a private Matrix network, with a customized version of the Matrix Element app.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://element.io/case-studies/bundeswehr | title=Bundeswehr &#124; BwMessenger &#124; Matrix &#124; Defence case study }}</ref><br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/matrix-pilot-bwmessenger | title=German armed forces testing open source chat| date=16 January 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
Luxembourg has developed a Matrix-based chat service for government officials, named Luxchat4Gov, planned to be released in the second quartal of 2023.<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://joinup.ec.europa.eu/collection/open-source-observatory-osor/news/luxembourg-launches-open-source-chat-officials-and-citizens|title=Luxembourg launches open source chat for officials and citizens|date=16 February 2023 }}</ref><br />
<br />
The [[Swedish Social Insurance Agency]] (''Försäkringskassan'') is using Matrix for internal communications.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://element.io/blog/dsam-och-esam-forordar-matrix-for-saker-och-federerad-kommunikation-inom-sveriges-offentliga-sektor/|title=dSam and eSam endorse Matrix for secure and federated communications in the Swedish public sector|date=December 2022 }}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Rocket.Chat]] is based on Matrix since version 4.7.0.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/05/30/welcoming-rocket-chat-to-matrix| title=Welcoming Rocket.Chat to Matrix!}}</ref><br />
It is used in private networks of public governmental offices, private companies and NGOs, across the world.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.rocket.chat/customers|title=Organizations which choose Rocket.Chat}}</ref><br />
<br />
The [[FOSDEM]] was held on Matrix in 2021<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.fosdem.org/2021/practical/matrix_troubleshooting/|title=Troubleshooting Matrix at FOSDEM 2021}}</ref><br />
and 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-14 |title=FOSDEM 2022's communication infrastructure was provided by Element Matrix Services |url=https://element.io/blog/fosdem-2022s-communication-infrastructure-was-provided-by-element-matrix-services/ |access-date=2023-01-25 |website=Element Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.fosdem.org/2022/practical/matrix_troubleshooting/|title=Troubleshooting Matrix at FOSDEM 2022}}</ref><br />
The hosting was provided by Element Matrix Services, which published the technical details for public review soon after the event for 2021<br />
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2021/02/15/how-we-hosted-fosdem-2021-on-matrix|title=How we hosted FOSDEM 2021 on Matrix}}</ref><br />
and 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2022/02/07/hosting-fosdem-2022-on-matrix|title=Hosting FOSDEM 2022 on Matrix}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[Fediverse]]<br />
* [[XMPP]]<br />
* [[Session Initiation Protocol]] (SIP)<br />
* [[Rich Communication Services]]<br />
* [[IRC]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|refs=<br />
<ref name="Ermoshina-2016">{{cite conference|last1=Ermoshina |first1=Ksenia |last2=Musiani |first2=Francesca |last3=Halpin |first3=Harry|editor=Bagnoli, Franco|display-editors=etal|pages=244–254 |title=End-to-End Encrypted Messaging Protocols: An Overview|series=Lecture Notes in Computer Science |book-title=Internet Science |publisher=Springer |location=Florence, Italy |conference=INSCI 2016 |doi=10.1007/978-3-319-45982-0_22 |isbn=978-3-319-45982-0 |date=September 2016 |volume=9934 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="lwn">{{cite news | url=https://lwn.net/Articles/632572/ | title=Matrix: a new specification for federated realtime chat | author=Nathan Willis | work=[[LWN.net]] | date=2015-02-11 | access-date=2015-06-28 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="drdobbs">{{cite news | url=http://www.drdobbs.com/tools/240169004 | author=Adrian Bridgwater | title=Matrix.org Reloads Inside "Illusion of Control" Vortex | work=[[Dr. Dobb's Journal]] | date=2014-09-09 | access-date=2015-07-20 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Prokop 2015">{{cite news | url=https://www.nojitter.com/solving-webrtc-interoperability-problem | author=Andrew Prokop | title=Solving the WebRTC Interoperability Problem - Post | work= No Jitter | date=2015-02-23 | access-date=2015-06-28 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Scales 2015">{{cite news | url=https://www.telecomtv.com/articles/standards/to-interop-or-not-to-interop-is-matrix-org-the-answer-for-silo-d-comms-services-12444/ | author= Ian Scales| title=To interop or not to interop? Is Matrix.org the answer for silo'd comms services? | work= TelecomTV | date=2015-05-11 | access-date=2015-06-22 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="citeworld">{{cite news | url=https://www.itworld.com/article/2694500/ | author=Matt Weinberger | title=Matrix wants to smash the walled gardens of messaging | work=ITworld | date=2014-09-16 | access-date=2015-07-20 }}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Konversation 2017">https://blogs.kde.org/2017/09/05/konversation-2x-2018-new-user-interface-matrix-support-mobile-version{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Larabel 2019">{{cite web | title=KDE To Support Matrix Decentralized Instant Messaging | author=Michael Larabel | website=Phoronix | date=2019-02-20 | url=https://phoronix.com/scan.php?page=news_item&px=KDE-Matrix-Support | access-date=2019-02-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="AmdocsUC">{{Cite web|url=http://www.amdocs.com:80/Products/digital-lifestyle-services/Pages/unified-communications.aspx|title=Unified Communications|website=amdocs|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141003202858/http://www.amdocs.com/Products/digital-lifestyle-services/Pages/unified-communications.aspx|archive-date=2014-10-03|url-status=dead|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2019-02-20">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/who-is-matrix-org/|title=Who is Matrix.org?|website=matrix.org|date=2019-02-20|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329152401/https://matrix.org/blog/who-is-matrix-org/|archive-date=2019-03-29|url-status=dead}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Linkedin">{{Cite web|url=https://www.linkedin.com/company/vector-creations-ltd.|title=Linkedin entry for Vector Creations Limited|access-date=2018-10-22}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Edholm 2015">{{cite news|url=http://www.webrtcworld.com/topics/from-the-experts/articles/403607-webrtc-world-miami-wrap-up-review.htm|title=WebRTC World Miami Wrap Up and Review|author=Phil Edholm|date=2015-05-18|work=WebRTC|access-date=2015-06-28}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="companieshouse vector">{{cite news | url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/10873661 | title=Free company information from Companies House (UK Government) | access-date=2018-07-30 |website=[[Companies House]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="vector.im">{{Cite web|url=https://vector.im/|title=New Vector - We believe the future will be open and decentralized|website=New Vector|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2017-07-07">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2017/07/07/a-call-to-arms-supporting-matrix/|title=A Call to Arms: Supporting Matrix!|website=matrix.org|date=2017-07-07|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Patreon">{{Cite news|url=https://www.patreon.com/posts/hello-world-12867439|title=Hello world! {{!}} Matrix.org on Patreon|work=Patreon|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Matrix Live 1">{{Citation|author1=Matrixdotorg|title=Matrix Live - Episode 1: July 14th 2017|date=2017-07-21|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0n1xz4KRVE|access-date=2018-10-22}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="matrix week">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/category/this-week-in-matrix/|title=This Week in Matrix|website=matrix.org|access-date=2023-07-26}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="modular.im">{{Cite web|url=https://www.modular.im/|title=Awesome hosting for Matrix|website=www.modular.im|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Armasu 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://www.tomshardware.com/news/purism-librem-5-january-2019,37216.html|last=Armasu|first=Lucian|title=Purism's Privacy-Focused Librem 5 Smartphone's On Track For A Jan '19 Release|date=2018-06-06|work=Tom's Hardware|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Purism shop">{{Cite web|url=https://shop.puri.sm/shop/librem-5/|title=Librem 5 – A Security and Privacy Focused Phone|website=shop.puri.sm|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Rogers 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://venturebeat.com/2018/01/29/status-invests-5-million-in-matrix-to-create-a-blockchain-messaging-superpower/|title=Status invests $5 million in Matrix to create a blockchain messaging superpower|last=Rogers|first=Stewart|date=2018-01-29|work=VentureBeat|access-date=2018-10-20}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Status 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://blog.status.im/status-invests-5m-in-riot-im-4e3026a8bd50|title=Status Invests $5M In Riot.im|date=2018-01-29|work=Status Blog|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180130071553/https://blog.status.im/status-invests-5m-in-riot-im-4e3026a8bd50|archive-date=2018-01-30|url-status=dead}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Rosemain 2018">{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-france-privacy/france-builds-whatsapp-rival-due-to-surveillance-risk-idUSKBN1HN258|title=France builds WhatsApp rival due to surveillance risk|last=Rosemain|first=Mathieu|work=U.S.|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<!-- <ref name="blog 2018-04-26">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2018/04/26/matrix-and-riot-confirmed-as-the-basis-for-frances-secure-instant-messenger-app/|title=Matrix and Riot confirmed as the basis for France's Secure Instant Messenger app|website=matrix.org|date=2018-04-26|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref>--><br />
<br />
<ref name="companieshouse foundation">{{Cite web|url=https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/11648710|title=THE MATRIX.ORG FOUNDATION – Overview (free company information from Companies House)|website=[[Companies House]]|access-date=2018-11-04}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2018-10-29">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2018/10/29/introducing-the-matrix-org-foundation-part-1-of-2/|title=Introducing the Matrix.org Foundation (Part 1 of 2)|website=matrix.org|date=2018-10-29|access-date=2018-11-04}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Balducci Meredith 2016">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nccgroup.trust/us/our-research/matrix-olm-cryptographic-review/|title=Matrix Olm Cryptographic Review|author=Alex Balducci|author2=Jake Meredith|date=18 November 2016|website=www.nccgroup.trust|access-date=2018-10-20|archive-date=2018-10-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020095212/https://www.nccgroup.trust/us/our-research/matrix-olm-cryptographic-review/|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="blog 2016-11-21">{{Cite web|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2016/11/21/matrixs-olm-end-to-end-encryption-security-assessment-released-and-implemented-cross-platform-on-riot-at-last/|title=Matrix's 'Olm' End-to-end Encryption security assessment released – and implemented cross-platform on Riot at last!|website=matrix.org|date=2016-11-21|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Telegram">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-telegram|title=tulir/mautrix-telegram|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Discord">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/Half-Shot/matrix-appservice-discord|title=Half-Shot/matrix-appservice-discord|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Gitter">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-gitter|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-gitter|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20|date=2018-09-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Slack">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-slack|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-slack|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="IRC">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-irc|title=matrix-org/matrix-appservice-irc|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="WhatsApp">{{Cite web|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-whatsapp|title=tulir/mautrix-whatsapp|website=GitHub|access-date=2018-10-20}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="XMPP">{{Citation|title=GitHub - matrix-org/matrix-appservice-purple: General purpose bridging using libpurple .|date=2018-12-29|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/matrix-appservice-purple|publisher=matrix.org|access-date=2018-12-31}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="LinkedIn">{{Cite web|url=https://gitlab.com/beeper/linkedin|title=beeper/linkedin|website=GitLab|access-date=2022-07-03}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=July 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Signal">{{Citation|title=A Matrix-Signal puppeting bridge|date=2021-02-06|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-signal|publisher=Tulir Asokan|access-date=2021-02-06}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2021}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Skype">{{Citation|title=skype-bridge|date=2020-05-16|url=https://github.com/matrix-hacks/matrix-puppet-skype|publisher=matrix.org|access-date=2020-05-16}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=May 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<!-- Not in use<br />
<ref name="client list">{{cite web|title=Try Matrix Now!|url=https://matrix.org/docs/projects/try-matrix-now.html|website=Matrix.org|access-date=13 August 2017}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=February 2019}}</ref><br />
Not in use--><br />
<br />
<ref name="Breach Apr 2019">{{cite web|title=We have discovered and addressed a security breach|url=https://matrix.org/blog/2019/04/11/security-incident|website=Matrix.org|access-date=2019-04-12}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2019}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Facebook">{{cite web|title=tulir/mautrix-facebook|url=https://github.com/tulir/mautrix-facebook|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Synapse">{{cite web|title=matrix-org/synapse|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/synapse|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Dendrite Quote">{{cite web|title=matrix-org/dendrite|url=https://github.com/matrix-org/dendrite|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Construct">{{cite web|title=matrix-construct/construct|url=https://github.com/matrix-construct/construct|website=GitHub|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
<ref name="Mascarene">{{cite web|title=mascarene/mascarene|url=https://gitlab.com/mascarene/mascarene|website=Gitlab|access-date=2020-04-27}}{{self-published-inline|certain=y|date=April 2020}}</ref><br />
}}<br />
<br />
==External links==<br />
* {{Official website}}<br />
* [https://matrix.org/docs/spec/ Specification]<br />
* {{GitHub|matrix-org}}<br />
<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
{{telecommunications}}<br />
{{Computer-mediated communication}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Application layer protocols]]<br />
[[Category:Communication]]<br />
[[Category:Computer-related introductions in 2014]]<br />
[[Category:Protocols related to Internet Relay Chat]]<br />
[[Category:VoIP protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1191019853IMessage2023-12-21T03:00:52Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = IMessage logo.svg<br />
| logo_size = 64px<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size =<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
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Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
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Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
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==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
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On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
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On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
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=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
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==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
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==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
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== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
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On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
<br />
On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
<br />
From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play and became the fastest-growing paid Android app in history, gaining more than 100,000 downloads in the first 48 hours. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again, this time as a free app. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref> The shutdown by Apple led to one US senator expressing criticism of Apple on her X account, followed by several senators and congressmen writing the [[United States Department of Justice |Department of Justice]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/inno/stories/news/2023/12/18/doj-asked-to-probe-apple-over-beeper-block.html}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage. <ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1191019770IMessage2023-12-21T03:00:21Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = IMessage logo.svg<br />
| logo_size = 64px<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size =<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
<br />
Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
<br />
Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
<br />
On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
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On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
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=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
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==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
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== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
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On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
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On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
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From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play and became the fastest-growing paid Android app in history, gaining more than 100,000 downloads in the first 48 hours. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again, this time as a free app. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref> The shutdown by Apple led to one US senator expressing criticism of Apple on her X account, followed by several senators and congressmen writing the [[United States Department of Justice Antitrust Division|Department of Justice]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/inno/stories/news/2023/12/18/doj-asked-to-probe-apple-over-beeper-block.html}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage. <ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1191015393IMessage2023-12-21T02:30:51Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = IMessage logo.svg<br />
| logo_size = 64px<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size =<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
<br />
Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
<br />
Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
<br />
On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
<br />
=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
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== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
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On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
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On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
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From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
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On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
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On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play and became the fastest-growing paid Android app in history, gaining more than 100,000 downloads in the first 48 hours. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again, this time as a free app. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref> The shutdown by Apple led to one US senator expressing criticism of Apple on her X account, followed by several senators and congressmen writing the [[Department of Justice]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/inno/stories/news/2023/12/18/doj-asked-to-probe-apple-over-beeper-block.html}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
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In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
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=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage. <ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Google_Fi_Wireless&diff=1190663166Google Fi Wireless2023-12-19T04:43:51Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{notconfuse|Google Fiber}}<br />
{{short description|Mobile network operator owned by Google}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=November 2018}}<br />
{{Infobox telecommunications network<br />
| logo = Google Fi Wireless - Logo, Text (2023).svg<br />
| logo_alt = Google Fi logo<br />
| image = <!-- A network map or similar --><br />
| image_size =<br />
| image_alt =<br />
| image_caption =<br />
| type = Mobile data and voice service<br />
| location = {{ubl|United States|Roaming in 200+ international destinations}}<br />
| frequency =<br />
| protocols = [[GSM]] / [[UMTS]] / [[LTE (telecommunication)|LTE]] / [[5G NR|NR]]<br />
| use = Wireless smartphone service<br />
| owner = [[Google]]<br />
| operator = [[T-Mobile US|T-Mobile]]<br />
| established = {{Start date and age|2015|04|22}}<br />
| current_status = Operational<br />
| commercial = Yes<br />
| website = {{URL|1=https://fi.google.com/about|2=fi.google.com}}<br />
|logo_size=250}}<br />
<br />
'''Google Fi Wireless''' (pronounced {{IPAc-en|f|aɪ}}), formerly '''Project Fi''' and '''Google Fi''', is an American [[mobile virtual network operator|MVNO]] [[telecommunication]]s service by [[Google]] that provides [[telephone call]]s, [[SMS]], and [[mobile broadband]] using [[cellular network]]s and [[Wi-Fi]]. Google Fi uses the [[T-Mobile US|T-Mobile]] network. Google Fi is a service for US residents only, as of late 2023.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://support.google.com/fi/thread/636439?hl=en|title=Is Fi available to Canadian Consumers yet? If not is it possible to "roam" in Canada permanently? - Google Fi Help|website=support.google.com|access-date=2019-10-24}}</ref><br />
<br />
The service was launched for the [[Nexus 6]], by invitation only, on April 22, 2015. The service was opened to the public on March 7, 2016,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.popsci.com/5-things-googles-project-fi-release-date-invite|title=5 Things To Know About Google's Project Fi|website=Popular Science|date=March 7, 2016 |language=en|access-date=2018-12-06}}</ref> and made it work with additional device models, including the [[Pixel (smartphone)|Pixel and Pixel XL]] [[smartphone]]s, was introduced on October 4, 2016.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/10/4/13162764/google-pixel-project-fi-release-date-pricing|title=Google's Pixel phones will be available through Project Fi|last=Welch|first=Chris|date=2016-10-04|website=The Verge|access-date=2018-12-06}}</ref> On November 28, 2018, Google rebranded Project Fi as Google Fi and made it work with more device models, including partially with [[iPhone]]s.<ref>{{cite web |title=Project Fi officially rebranded as 'Google Fi', now supports most Android phones and iPhones |url=https://www.androidcentral.com/project-fi-officially-rebranded-google-fi-now-supports-most-android-phones-and-iphones |website=Android Central |date=November 28, 2018 |access-date=November 28, 2018}}</ref> In 2023, it was once again renamed Google Fi Wireless.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Weatherbed |first=Jess |date=April 19, 2023 |title=Google Fi has a new name and expanded connectivity support for smartwatches |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/19/23689628/google-fi-wireless-new-name-rebrand-smartwatch-connectivity-support |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419174001/https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/19/23689628/google-fi-wireless-new-name-rebrand-smartwatch-connectivity-support |archive-date=April 19, 2023 |access-date=April 19, 2023 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
== History ==<br />
Google Fi was announced exclusively for the [[Nexus 6]] smartphone on April 22, 2015, on the [[Sprint Corporation|Sprint]] and [[T-Mobile US|T-Mobile]] networks.<ref>{{cite web |first=Nick |last=Fox |title=Say hi to Fi: A new way to say hello |url=https://googleblog.blogspot.no/2015/04/project-fi.html |website=Official Google Blog |date=April 22, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Chris |last=Welch |title=Google launches its own mobile network for Nexus 6 owners |url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/4/22/8467433/google-launches-mobile-service |website=[[The Verge]] |date=April 22, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Ellen |last=Huet |title=Google Unveils Its 'Project Fi' Wireless Service |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/ellenhuet/2015/04/22/google-unveils-wireless-service-project-fi/ |website=[[Forbes]] |date=April 22, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Chris |last=Velazco |title=Google's Project Fi service turns multiple phone networks into one |url=https://www.engadget.com/2015/04/22/google-project-fi/ |website=[[Engadget]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=April 22, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> Because of high demand at launch, the service required that users receive invitations, which were gradually released throughout summer 2015.<ref>{{cite web |first=Sam |last=Byford |title=Google's Project Fi invites won't roll out to everyone til mid-summer |url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/5/22/8642775/google-project-fi-invite-date |website=[[The Verge]] |date=May 22, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Sarah |last=Perez |title=Google's Project Fi Invites To Reach Everyone By Mid-Summer |url=https://techcrunch.com/2015/05/22/googles-project-fi-invites-to-reach-everyone-by-mid-summer/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=May 22, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> The invitation system was dropped on March 7, 2016.<ref>{{cite web |first=Simon |last=Arscott |title=From "Hi" to Fi to "Goodbye" to invites: 7 things we've learned about Project Fi |url=https://blog.google/products/project-fi/from-hi-to-fi-to-goodbye-to-invites/ |website=The Keyword Google Blog |date=March 7, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Jon |last=Fingas |title=Google's Project Fi no longer requires an invitation to join |url=https://www.engadget.com/2016/03/07/google-project-fi-drops-invitations/ |website=[[Engadget]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=March 7, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Frederic |last=Lardinois |title=You can now sign up for Google's Project Fi cell service without an invite |url=https://techcrunch.com/2016/03/07/you-can-now-sign-up-for-googles-project-fi-without-an-invite/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=March 7, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> [[U.S. Cellular]] was added on June 8, 2016.<ref>{{cite web |first=Evan |last=Jacobs |title=More speed and coverage with U.S. Cellular — now part of Project Fi |url=https://blog.google/products/project-fi/more-speed-and-coverage-with-us/ |website=The Keyword Google Blog |date=June 8, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Sean |last=O'Kane |title=Google adds US Cellular to Project Fi |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/6/8/11886758/project-fi-us-cellular-google-network-wireless-carrier-lte |website=[[The Verge]] |date=June 8, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Ron |last=Amadeo |title=Google's Project Fi cell service adds US Cellular to the mix |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2016/06/googles-project-fi-cell-service-adds-us-cellular-to-the-mix/ |website=[[Ars Technica]] |date=June 8, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> [[3 (company)|Three]] was added on July 12, 2016.<ref name="Stay connected abroad">{{cite web |first=Tyler |last=Kugler |title=Stay connected abroad with high speed data from Project Fi |url=https://blog.google/products/project-fi/stay-connected-abroad-with-high-speed/ |website=The Keyword Google Blog |date=July 12, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Paul |last=Miller |title=Google adds Three network to Project Fi's family to improve international speeds |url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/7/12/12159210/google-project-fi-three-network-international-roaming-speed |website=[[The Verge]] |date=July 12, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Ron |last=Amadeo |title=Google's Project Fi gets international LTE, adds Three to carrier lineup |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2016/07/googles-project-fi-gets-international-lte-adds-three-to-carrier-lineup/ |website=[[Ars Technica]] |date=July 12, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> In October 2016, Google added the ability to use [[Pixel (smartphone)|Pixel and Pixel XL]] smartphones,<ref>{{cite web |first=Marguerite |last=Reardon |title=Google adds Pixel phones to Project Fi lineup |url=https://www.cnet.com/news/google-pixel-phones-project-fi-lineup/ |publisher=[[CNET]] |date=October 4, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Chris |last=Welch |title=Google's Pixel phones will be available through Project Fi |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/10/4/13162764/google-pixel-project-fi-release-date-pricing |website=[[The Verge]] |date=October 4, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> and later introduced a Group Plan, letting subscribers add extra members to their plans.<ref name="Google - Group Plan">{{cite web |first=Marcia |last=Jung |title=Introducing Project Fi's group plan |url=https://blog.google/products/project-fi/introducing-project-fis-group-plan/ |website=The Keyword Google Blog |date=October 11, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref name="Engadget - Group Plan">{{cite web |first=Nathan |last=Ingraham |title=Google's Project Fi now has family plans |url=https://www.engadget.com/2016/10/11/google-project-fi-group-plans/ |website=[[Engadget]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=October 11, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref name="The Verge - Group Plan">{{cite web |first=Nick |last=Statt |title=Google introduces group plans for its Project Fi mobile network |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/10/11/13235192/google-project-fi-group-plan-wireless-cell-service |website=[[The Verge]] |date=October 11, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 17, 2018, Google Fi announced bill protection which caps the charge for data at $60. If the data used is greater than 15{{nbsp}}GB, then Fi may slow the data speed to 256{{nbsp}}kbit/s. The user can avoid the slowdown by paying full price for the data used at $10 per GB. Bill protection also works with group plans, with a maximum charge of $85 for two people, $120 for three people, and $140 for four people. The rate for unlimited calls and texting is not affected by bill protection.{{citation needed|date=October 2021}}<br />
Google Fi later dropped US Cellular, leaving T-Mobile as the only network usable with it in the US.<br />
<ref>{{Cite web |author1=Nickolas Diaz |date=2023-03-01 |title=Google Fi no longer uses US Cellular as part of its official network |url=https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/carriers/google-fi-drops-us-cellular |access-date=2023-03-01 |website=Android Central |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In February 2023, [[U.S. Cellular]] discontinued its partnership with Google Fi in a statement saying "We will no longer be an official network partner of Google Fi," US Cellular senior manager of media relations Katie Frey told CNET over email. "We value our relationship with Google, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration in other ways."<ref>Lumb, D. (2023, March 1). Google Fi Ditches Another Mobile Network, Leaving Only T-Mobile. CNET. https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-fi-reportedly-drops-us-cellular-leaving-t-mobile-as-last-network/</ref><br />
<br />
== Features ==<br />
Google Fi Wireless automatically switches between networks depending on signal strength and speed.<ref>{{cite web |first=Cade |last=Metz |title=In the New Wireless Universe, You're Finally at the Center |url=https://www.wired.com/2016/05/google-changing-way-phones-use-wireless/ |website=[[Wired (website)|Wired]] |date=May 1, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> It can automatically connect to open [[Hotspot (Wi-Fi)|Wi-Fi hotspots]] while securing data with [[encryption]] through an automatic [[VPN]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Richard |last=Lawler |title=Google links Google Fi-approved WiFi hotspots to Nexus phones |url=https://www.engadget.com/2016/08/24/google-project-fi-wifi-assistant-nexus/ |website=[[Engadget]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=August 24, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> Phone calls will seamlessly transition to a [[cellular network]] if Wi-Fi coverage is lost.<ref name="Unify">{{cite web |first=Cade |last=Metz |title=Google Fi Is One Step Closer to Unifying the World's Wireless Networks |url=https://www.wired.com/2016/07/googles-project-fi-one-step-closer-unifying-worlds-wireless-networks |website=[[Wired (website)|Wired]] |date=July 12, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Brian |last=Fung |title=Project Fi review: The most remarkable feature of Google's new cell service |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2015/07/08/the-most-remarkable-feature-of-googles-new-cell-service/ |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |date=July 8, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Andrew |last=Martonik |title=What is Project Fi, how does it work and why do I want it? |url=http://www.androidcentral.com/what-project-fi-how-does-it-work-and-why-do-i-want-it |website=Android Central |date=November 22, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Omar |last=El Akkad |title=Why I ditched my cellphone carrier to try Google's Project Fi |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/technology/tech-news/google-expanding-into-us-cellphone-plans-with-project-fi/article27443197/ |website=[[The Globe and Mail]] |publisher=[[The Woodbridge Company]] |date=November 23, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
Google Fi Wireless users could originally use the now defunct [[Google Hangouts]] on any phone, tablet, or computer to call and text.<ref>{{cite web |title=Use Hangouts with Project Fi |url=https://support.google.com/fi/answer/6188337 |website=Project Fi Help |publisher=Google Inc. |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> Google Fi Wireless also implements [[VoLTE]] as part of a staged rollout.<ref>{{cite web |title=Project Fi currently testing VoLTE calling for 'subset' of subscribers |url=https://9to5google.com/2017/02/17/google-mvno-project-fi-volte-calling-test/ |website=9to5Google |access-date=January 16, 2018 |date=February 18, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
In addition to using a phone's physical [[SIM card|SIM]] (pSim) card, Google Fi now offers a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option whereby the customer uses their current compatible phone (Google Pixel, Android or iPhone) using a [[eSIM]] (Embedded Sim) virtual card to establish Google Fi as a standalone service or in conjunction with another provider i.e. AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Mint etc... When a phone uses the DualSim the phone owner can make and receive telephone calls from either Google Fi or the other mobile provider simultaneously, but only one of the data service can be used at a time.<ref>[https://fi.google.com/about/faq Google Frequently Asked Questions (What is an eSim?] (Retrieved 03 August 2023 from Google Fi website)</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2021, Google Fi Wireless announced that it would allow [[end-to-end encrypted]] calls.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-10-28|title=Google Fi's adding support for end-to-end encrypted calls|url=https://www.androidpolice.com/google-fi-adding-support-for-end-to-end-encrypted-calls/|access-date=2021-10-29|website=Android Police|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Plans ==<br />
Monthly plans start at $20 per month and are [[flat fee]]–based, paid at the beginning of each monthly billing cycle. All plans include unlimited calls and messaging. Money for unused data is credited back to the user's account, while overuse of data results in a charge of $10 per gigabyte.<ref>{{cite web|title=Phone plans & prices|url=https://fi.google.com/about/plan/|access-date=April 29, 2021|website=Project Fi}}</ref> When outside the United States, cellular phone calls cost $0.20 per minute, data costs the same $10 per [[gigabyte]] (i.e. there are no extra data charges outside of the US), and texting is free.<ref>{{cite web |title=Use your phone outside the U.S. |url=https://support.google.com/fi/answer/6157794 |website=Project Fi Help |publisher=Google Inc. |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref> Data is free at full speeds between 6&nbsp;GB and 15&nbsp;GB for the duration of the billing cycle with Bill Protection. After 15&nbsp;GB, data continues to be free but will be throttled to unspecified speeds.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://fi.google.com/about/plan/|title=Google Fi - Plan benefits & details|website=Meet Google Fi, a different kind of phone plan.|language=en|access-date=2019-01-28}}</ref> A data-only [[Subscriber identity module|SIM]] card can be used on tablets and other compatible devices, including the [[Nexus 7 (2013)|2013 Nexus 7]], [[Nexus 9]], and [[iPad Air 2]]. The devices must be compatible with the T-Mobile network, and users can add up to 4 data-only SIM cards in one account (before July 2019 the limit was 9 data-only SIM cards in one account).<ref>{{cite web |title=Use Project Fi with tablets & other compatible devices |url=https://support.google.com/fi/answer/6330195 |website=Project Fi Help |publisher=Google Inc. |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Marguerite |last=Reardon |title=Google's experimental wireless service will work with tablets too |url=https://www.cnet.com/news/googles-experimental-wireless-service-will-work-with-tablets-too/ |publisher=[[CNET]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=March 25, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Jules |last=Wang |title=Google Fi is cracking down on data SIM hoarders limiting each account to 4 |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/2019/07/25/google-fi-data-only-sim-limit/ |date=July 25, 2019 |access-date=January 6, 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
A Group Plan, which allows users, referred to as "managers", to add other people, referred to as "members", to their subscription, costs an additional $15 per user. Group Plans let managers view data usage by member, set data notifications, add monthly allowances, and pause members' data usage. In June 2017, Group Plans were updated to feature "Group Repay", in which Google Fi Wireless automatically calculates each of the members' individual shares of the bill and allows for easy payments. Such payments can be a fixed amount, an individual's total usage, or only for data usage above the standard data allotment.<ref>{{cite web |first=Dani |last=Deahl |title=Project Fi now automatically calculates and bills each member of a group plan |url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/6/20/15839824/project-fi-group-plans-repay |website=[[The Verge]] |publisher=[[Vox media]] |date=June 20, 2017 |access-date=June 20, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Frederic |last=Lardinois |title=Google makes splitting the cost of Project Fi group plans easier |url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/06/20/project-fi-group-repay/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=June 20, 2017 |access-date=June 20, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Emil |last=Protalinski |title=Google's Project Fi now lets you split the bill |url=https://venturebeat.com/2017/06/20/googles-project-fi-now-lets-you-split-the-bill/ |website=[[VentureBeat]] |date=June 20, 2017 |access-date=June 20, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
Google Fi Wireless offers an 'Unlimited' Plan for its users for a flat rate of $70 per month with up to 50&nbsp;GB of high speed data. After 50&nbsp;GB, speeds are throttled to 256&nbsp;kbit/s.<br />
On both plans, users can pay an additional $10 per 1&nbsp;GB until their next billing cycle.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://support.google.com/fi/answer/6330195?hl=en|title=Use Google Fi with tablets & other compatible devices - Google Fi Help|website=support.google.com|access-date=2019-01-28}}</ref> Fi's 'Unlimited' plan also includes 100 GB of Google One storage at no additional cost. It is important to note that Google Fi Wireless does not honor promotions for current Google Fi Wireless customers. This is not explained on promotional offers and many customers have noted that Google Fi Wireless has a history of assuring customers that promotional offers are valid, and the day after it expires, will email customers to let them know that they aren't eligible.<br />
<br />
== Reception ==<br />
Nicole Lee of ''[[Engadget]]'' praised the service's plans, writing that "In the course of six months, I've barely touched my monthly 2 GB data allotment and frequently receive money back each month from unused data. I found myself paying a little more than $20 a month for Fi, which is the least I've paid for a cell phone service, ever." Lee liked the service's transition between Wi-Fi and cellular data.<ref>{{cite web |first=Nicole |last=Lee |title=After six months with Google's Project Fi, I'd switch to it if I could |url=https://www.engadget.com/2015/12/04/google-project-fi/ |website=[[Engadget]] |publisher=[[AOL]] |date=April 12, 2015 |access-date=April 21, 2017}}</ref> JR Raphael of ''[[Computerworld]]'' also praised the pricing strategy and network transitions. Raphael also wrote that "Fi's customer support is [...] actually a pretty good experience", elaborating that "if you need extra help, both interfaces offer the ability to get 24/7 support from a real person via phone or email."<ref>{{cite web |first=JR |last=Raphael |title=Project Fi revisited: 6 months with Google's weird wireless service |url=http://www.computerworld.com/article/3056595/mobile-wireless/project-fi.html |website=[[Computerworld]] |publisher=[[International Data Group]] |date=April 14, 2016 |access-date=April 21, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[Google Fiber]]<br />
* [[Google Voice]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{official website|https://fi.google.com}}<br />
<br />
{{Google LLC}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Google|Fi Wireless]]<br />
[[Category:Mobile virtual network operators]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Psystar_Corporation&diff=1189975459Psystar Corporation2023-12-15T04:43:58Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{short description|American computer company}}<br />
{{Infobox company<br />
| name = Psystar Corporation<br />
| fate = Dissolved<br />
| founded =<br />
| defunct = {{End date and age|2012|5|14}}<br />
| logo = [[Image:Psystarlogo.png|Psystar Logo]]<br />
| location_city = [[Doral, Florida]]<br />
| location_country = USA<br />
| industry = {{unbulleted list | [[Computer hardware]] | [[Computer software]] | [[Consumer electronics]] }}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Psystar Corporation''' was a company based in [[Miami, Florida]], owned by Rudy and Robert Pedraza who sold "Open Computers" though one article claimed "Psystar, run by HyperMegaNet, based in Wolfsburg, Germany, currently ships to 23 destinations including the UK via delivery firm DHL."<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20090606020203/https://www.pcworld.com/article/162958/is_mac_cloner_pearc_flouting_apples_eula_in_eu.html Spence, Nick (Apr 10, 2009) Is Mac Cloner PearC Flouting Apple's EULA in E.U.? ''Macworld'']</ref><br />
<br />
These [[computers]], first announced in April 2008, had the option of being pre-installed with [[Mac OS X Leopard]], making them the first commercially distributed [[OSx86|"hackintosh" computers]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.crn.com/blogs-op-ed/the-apple-channel/207200440/psystar-releases-mac-clone-but-has-apple-shut-them-down.htm|title=Psystar Releases Mac Clone, But Has Apple Shut Them Down?|first=Jennifer|last=Lawinski|website=CRN|date=14 April 2008}}</ref> In November 2009, a U.S. Federal District Court ruled Psystar violated [[Apple Inc.|Apple]]'s copyrights in doing so.<ref>[http://www.groklaw.net/pdf2/Psystar-214.pdf Order Re Cross Motions for Summary Judgement], ''Apple v. Psystar,'' No. C 08-03251 WHA</ref> Some of Apple's "trade secrets" officially entered into public view as a result of the lawsuit in January 2012.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2012-01-03/apple-loses-bid-to-keep-software-information-under-seal-in-psystar-case | work=Bloomberg | first=Karen | last=Gullo | title=Apple Loses Bid to Keep Software Information Under Seal in Psystar Case | date=January 3, 2012| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150202144903/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2012-01-03/apple-loses-bid-to-keep-software-information-under-seal-in-psystar-case | archive-date=2015-02-02 }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Open computers ==<br />
Psystar's computers were initially called "OpenMac" but were later renamed "Open Computers." The units sold can run different [[operating system]]s but the company chose to install Mac OS X from a copy bought from Apple. It was revealed that Psystar installed this on a [[Mac Mini]] and copied it to a non-Apple computer used as an imaging station, which created the master image of the operating system using Psystar's [[Booting|bootloader]] and [[Loadable kernel module|kernel extensions]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kMTfDgAAQBAJ&dq=psystar+rebel+efi&pg=PT451|title=Licensing Intellectual Property: Law and Applications|last=Gomulkiewicz|first=Robert W.|date=2014-10-30|publisher=Wolters Kluwer Law & Business|isbn=9781454849643|language=en}}</ref> This image was reproduced and installed on OpenComputer units. The Mac Mini was also used to download Mac OS X updates that were ported to OpenComputer machines.<br />
<br />
== Rebel EFI ==<br />
In October 2009, Psystar released an EFI boot disk in its web store.<ref>{{Cite book|title=OSx86: Creating a Hackintosh|last=Baldwin|first=Peter|publisher=John Wiley & Sons|year=2010|isbn=9780470881705|location=Hoboken, NJ}}</ref> The Rebel EFI was a shareware product that included a modified bootloader bundled with other software tools that allow users to install Mac OS X to any PC-based machine.<ref>{{Cite book|title=iOS Forensic Analysis: for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch|last1=Morrissey|first1=Sean|last2=Campbell|first2=Tony|publisher=Apress|year=2010|isbn=9781430233428|location=New York|pages=273}}</ref> The Rebel EFI was not an original work of Psystar but was based on an open source program called boot-132 from the [[OSx86]] Project.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.osnews.com/story/22386/psystar-defies-apple-once-more-releases-rebel-efi/|title=Psystar Defies Apple Once More, Releases Rebel EFI – OSnews|website=www.osnews.com}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Early concerns ==<br />
<br />
Early efforts to research Psystar shortly after their announcement of a Mac clone in April 2008 resulted in questions regarding the company's very existence and just how legitimate they were.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/article/psystar-hoax-or-fraud/ |title=Psystar: Hoax or fraud? |access-date=June 25, 2016 |work=[[ZDNet Government]] |publisher=[[ZDNet]] |date=2008-04-16 |author=Koman, Richard }}</ref><ref name= 2008-04-17 >{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/article/psystar-mystery-adds-up-to-phishing-scam/ |title=Psystar mystery adds up to phishing scam |access-date=June 25, 2016 |work=[[ZDNet Government]] |publisher=[[ZDNet]] |date=2008-04-17 |author=Koman, Richard }}</ref> Several addresses were provided (five in four days) and Psystar was taking credit card numbers but not processing them because their processing company, Powerpay, had revoked Psystar's account "for three primary reasons: product/services not as represented in application, sales volumes grossly exceeded, no address verification utilized";<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/article/powerpay-statement-on-psystar/ |title=PowerPay statement on Psystar |access-date=June 25, 2016 |publisher=ZDNet Government |date=2008-04-17 |author= Koman, Richard}}</ref> and there were claims that their website had malware on it.<ref name=2008-04-17 /><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thetechherald.com/article.php/200816/749/Psystar-and-its-Mac-clone-accused-of-being-Phishing-scam |title= Psystar and its Mac clone accused of being Phishing scam |access-date=Sep 14, 2008 |publisher=The Tech Herald |date=2008-04-18 |author=Smith, Stevie |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080512092739/http://www.thetechherald.com/article.php/200816/749/Psystar-and-its-Mac-clone-accused-of-being-Phishing-scam |archive-date=May 12, 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref><br />
<br />
The developers of the [[OSx86]] Project claimed that Psystar did not get permission to use their code and then reworked their license so that it specifically forbids commercial usage.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2008/04/16/osx86-project-not-too-happy-with-psystar-either/ |title=OSx86 Project not too happy with Psystar either |access-date=Sep 17, 2008 |publisher=Engadge |date=2008-04-16 |author= Patel, Nilay}}</ref><br />
<br />
As part of Apple's discovery process it was revealed that in 2008 Psystar presented a slide presentation in hope of raising $24 million from investors. "Under its conservative projections, Psystar told investors it would sell 70,000 computers in 2009, 470,000 systems in 2010, and 1.45 million machines in 2011. The firm's aggressive growth model, however, put those numbers at 130,000, 1.87 million, and 12 million during 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively."<ref name=2009-11-25>{{cite web |url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9141473/Psystar_promised_investors_huge_clone_sales |title=OSx86 Psystar promised investors huge clone sales; But clone maker sold just 768 systems, says Apple's economist |access-date=November 27, 2009|publisher=Computerworld |date=2009-11-25 |author= Keizer, Gregg}}</ref><br />
<br />
However, the reality was quite different. "Psystar produced incomplete financial records," Dr. Matthew Lynde, who works as an economics consultant for Cornerstone Research, said in a declaration during trial. After digging through invoices, purchase orders and other documents, Lynde was able to pinpoint only 768 sales of machines with Mac OS X pre-installed. Psystar did not challenge Lynde in his analysis of financial records.<ref name=2009-11-25/><br />
<br />
== Legal issues ==<br />
<br />
The [[end-user license agreement]] (EULA) for Mac OS X<ref>https://www.webcitation.org/6187NzNAm?url=http://images.apple.com/legal/sla/docs/macosx105.pdf {{Dead link|date=June 2022}}</ref> forbids third-party installations of Mac OS X, and Psystar's Mac clone is in violation of that agreement.<ref name= "IW">{{cite web |url=http://www.informationweek.com/blog/main/archives/2008/04/mac_clone_maker.html |title=Mac Clone Maker Psystar Vows To Challenge Apple EULA |access-date=19 November 2008 |work=[[InformationWeek|InformationWeek Blog]] |publisher=[[United Business Media]] |date=2008-04-14 |author=McDougall, Paul }}</ref> However, Psystar argues that Apple's prohibition against third-party installations will not hold up in court: "What if [[Honda]] said that, after you buy their car, you could only drive it on the roads they said you could?"<ref name="IW"/> Psystar says it will continue to sell the Open system, adding "We're not breaking any laws."<ref name="IW"/><br />
<br />
On July 3, 2008, Apple filed a lawsuit against Psystar in the [[United States district court|District Court]] of [[Northern California]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-13860_3-9991572-56.html |title=Apple sues clone maker Psystar |access-date=19 November 2008 |work=[[CNET News]] |publisher=[[CBS Corporation]] |date=2008-07-15 |author=Fried, Ina }}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 28, 2008, Psystar Corporation responded to Apple's claims of copyright infringement, and also countersued Apple for [[anti-competitive practices]], [[Monopoly|monopolistic behavior]], and [[copyright misuse]].<ref>[http://www.psystar.com/apple_v_psystar_answer_a_counterclaim_filed.html Psystar: Apple v. Psystar - Answer & Counterclaim Filed] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080912015625/http://www.psystar.com/apple_v_psystar_answer_a_counterclaim_filed.html |date=2008-09-12 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.itworld.com/article/2780706/hardware/psystar-beats-apple-to-blu-ray-on-os-x-computer.html|title=Psystar beats Apple to Blu-ray on OS X computer|first=Jonny|last=Evans|date=29 October 2008|website=ITworld}}</ref> This countersuit was dismissed on November 18, 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-10101581-37.html |title=Psystar antitrust claim against Apple dismissed |access-date=19 November 2008 |work= CNET News |publisher= CBS Corporation |date=2008-11-18 |author=Krazit, Tom }}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 27, 2008, Apple claimed "Psystar violated the [[Digital Millennium Copyright Act]] (DMCA) by dodging copy-protection technologies Apple uses to protect Mac OS X." "Apple employs technological protection measures that effectively control access to Apple's copyrighted works," the revised complaint read. "Defendant has illegally circumvented Apple's technological copyright-protection measures. [...] Specifically, Apple charged Psystar with acquiring or creating "code" that "avoids, bypasses, removes, descrambles, decrypts, deactivates or impairs a technological protection measure without Apple's authority for the purpose of gaining unauthorized access to Apple's copyrighted works."<ref>{{cite web|last=Keizer |first=Gregg |url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9121798/Apple_adds_DMCA_charge_to_lawsuit_against_Psystar |title=Apple adds DMCA charge to lawsuit against Psystar: It accuses clone maker of breaking Mac OS copy-protection scheme |publisher= | website= computerworld.com |date=November 30, 2008 |access-date=2009-10-07}}</ref> This brief revealed that Apple uses methods it considers protected by the DMCA to prevent Mac OS X from being installed on non-Apple hardware.<br />
<br />
On December 22, 2008, Psystar opened the claim that Apple "is prohibited from bringing action against Psystar for the alleged infringement of one or more of the plaintiff's copyrights for failure to register said copyrights with the copyright office as required" by law.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.informationweek.com/|title=InformationWeek, serving the information needs of the Business Technology Community|website=InformationWeek}}</ref><br />
<br />
On February 5, 2009, Psystar won a round as a modified abuse of copyright claim against Apple under Judge [[William Alsup]], opening the door to a potential nullification of the Apple-only hardware rule in Apple's EULA.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keizer |first=Gregg |url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9127579/Mac_clone_maker_wins_legal_round_against_Apple |title=Mac clone maker wins legal round against Apple: Psystar can argue Apple abused copyright laws, judge rules |publisher=computerworld.com |date=February 8, 2009 |access-date=2009-11-06}}</ref><br />
<br />
In April 2009, Apple alleged that Psystar was withholding financial information relating to their company and that "at the deposition regarding Psystar's revenues, profits, assets, and liabilities (including investors, lenders, or other sources of financial support), taken on March 20, 2009, Psystar's CEO and founder Rudy Pedraza, the person designated by Psystar to testify on this topic, would not answer basic questions about Psystar's financials."<ref><br />
{{cite web|last=Jade |first=Kasper |url=http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/09/05/01/apple_says_psystar_holding_back_info_in_mac_clone_legal_case.html |title=Apple says Psystar holding back info in Mac clone legal case |publisher=[[AppleInsider]] |date=May 1, 2009 |access-date=2009-11-06}}</ref> Psystar countered that they have never produced monthly, quarterly, or yearly statements, that they lost some documents when moving premises, and that they have produced the requested information where available.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://appleinsider.com/articles/09/05/08/psystar_claims_apple_asking_for_non_existent_redundant_info|title=Psystar claims Apple asking for non-existent, redundant info|first1=Katie |last1=Marsal |date=May 8, 2009 |website=AppleInsider}}</ref><br />
<br />
On May 26, 2009, Psystar filed for [[Chapter 11, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]. Regardless, the company continued to sell their computers with Apple's [[Mac OS X]] installed on them.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/psystar_files_bankruptcy_stalls_apples_case/ |title=Psystar Files Bankruptcy, Stalls Apple's Case |access-date=26 May 2009 |work=[[TMO Scoop]] |publisher=[[The Mac Observer, Inc]] |date=2009-05-26 |author=Gamet, Jeff }}</ref> Apple challenged that Psystar was using Chapter 11 bankruptcy to stall the case, and in June 2009, the court lifted the stay on Apple's lawsuit.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2009/06/bankruptcy-judge-lifts-stay-in-apples-suit-against-psystar/ |title=Bankruptcy judge lifts stay in Apple’s suit against Psystar |access-date=Feb 8, 2022 |publisher=Ars Technica |date=2009-06-24 |author=Foresman, Chris }}</ref><br />
<br />
On July 2, 2009, Psystar announced that they would emerge from Chapter 11 protection.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://psystar.cmail1.com/T/ViewEmail/r/6A585E4F43BB4E5B/7576075A56BBAC6D9A8E73400EDACAB4 |title=Chapter 11, exit stage right |access-date=Sep 12, 2009 |work=Psystar Meta Update |publisher=Psystar }}</ref><br />
<br />
As of August 12, 2009, debtor Psystar's bankruptcy was dismissed with prejudice with stipulations by Florida Judge Mark that no Chapter 11 bankruptcy can be filed for 12 months and that there will be no stay of any pending cases if Psystar seeks [[Chapter 7, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 7]] bankruptcy. "One effect of the judge's orders is that Psystar won't be able to use bankruptcy as a stall tactic against Apple—that trial is set to begin in January. But the other effect of the order is that Psystar can be sued by its creditors. 'All of Psystar's creditors are now free to sue in any court of competent jurisdiction to get their debts paid,' an attorney familiar with bankruptcy told The Mac Observer. That includes Apple, which Psystar may owe for copies of Mac OS X it bought from the company."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://arstechnica.com/apple/news/2009/08/psystar-bankruptcy-dismissed-out-of-the-frying-pan-into-the-fryer.ars |title=Psystar bankruptcy dismissed: out of the frying pan, into the fryer |access-date=Sep 13, 2009 |publisher=Ars Technica |date=2009-08-12 |author=Foresman, Chris}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 20, 2009, California Judge Alsup ordered Psystar to pay $5,000 of Apple's legal fees.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://arstechnica.com/apple/news/2009/09/psystar-fined-5k-files-snow-leopard-suit-in-florida.ars |title=Psystar, fined $5K, files Snow Leopard suit in Florida |access-date=Sep 12, 2009 |publisher=Ars Technica |date=2009-09-01 |author=Foresman, Chris}}</ref><br />
<br />
On October 8, 2009, the court ruled that Psystar was not entitled to Apple's profit margin data.<br />
<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.edibleapple.com/court-rules-that-psystar-is-not-entitled-to-apples-profit-margin-data/ |title=Court rules that Psystar is not entitled to Apple's profit margin data |access-date=Sep 12, 2009 |publisher=[[Edible Apple]] |date=2009-09-01 }}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 13, 2009, the court granted Apple's motion for summary judgement and found Apple's copyrights were violated as well as the [[Digital Millennium Copyright Act]] (DMCA) when Psystar installed Apple's operating system on non-Apple computers. A hearing on remedies was set for December 14.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://brainstormtech.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2009/11/14/apple-wins-clone-suit/ |title=Apple wins clone suit |access-date=November 15, 2009 |publisher=[[CNN Money]] |date=2009-11-14 |author=Elmer-DeWitt, Philip |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100330233518/http://brainstormtech.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2009/11/14/apple-wins-clone-suit/ |archive-date=March 30, 2010 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/182218/Apple_Wins_Court_Victory_Over_Mac_Clone_Maker_Psystar.html?tk=rss_news |title=Apple Wins Court Victory Over Mac Clone Maker Psystar |access-date=November 15, 2009 |publisher=[[Pc World]] |date=2009-11-15 |author=Keizer, Greg}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2009-11-14-apple-wins-copyright-infringement-case-against-psystar-in-califo.html |title=Apple wins copyright infringement case against Psystar in California |access-date=Jan 17, 2022 |publisher=Engadge |date=2008-11-14 |author= Patel, Nilay}}</ref><br />
<br />
On December 1, 2009, Psystar agreed to pay Apple $2.7 million for copyright infringement, breach of contract, violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, additional damages and attorneys fees in the California lawsuit. The payments were deferred until all Psystar's appeals are exhausted.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/09/12/01/psystar_agrees_to_pay_apple_1_3m_in_settlement.html|title=Psystar agrees to pay Apple $2.7M in settlement |access-date=December 1, 2009 |publisher=[[AppleInsider]] |date=2009-12-01 |author=Hughes, Neil}}</ref><br />
<br />
On December 15, 2009, the judge in the California action issued a permanent injunction barring Psystar from manufacturing, distributing, or assisting anyone with any sort of device or technology "that is primarily designed or produced for the purpose of circumventing a technological measure". The ruling applies to all current and future versions of Mac OS X and Judge Alsup made it clear that "Psystar will be selling Rebel EFI at its peril, and risks finding itself held in contempt if its new venture falls within the scope of the injunction."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://arstechnica.com/apple/news/2009/12/psystar-gets-permanent-injunction-legal-warning-from-judge.ars|title=Psystar gets permanent injunction, legal warning from judge |access-date=December 16, 2009 |publisher=Ars Technica |date=2009-12-16 |author=Foresman, Chris}}</ref> The ruling also requires Psystar to destroy all of its equipment and material that it used in the circumvention of Apple technologies by December 31.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.groklaw.net/article.php?story=20091215225827172 |title= Apple wins total, permanent injunction against Psystar |date= December 15, 2009 }}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 16, 2010, Psystar announced that they would be appealing the lawsuit put in place on December 15.<br />
<ref>{{cite web | url= http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/psystar_officially_files_notice_of_appeal_in_apple_lawsuit/<br />
| title=Psystar Officially Files Notice of Appeal in Apple Lawsuit<br />
| date=2010-01-15<br />
| author=Bryan Chaffin<br />
| publisher=The Mac Observer<br />
| access-date=2010-02-05}}</ref><br />
<br />
As of August 2010, Psystar's web site, store, and content delivery network are unreachable.<br />
<br />
On May 14, 2012, the US Supreme Court declined to hear Psystar's appeal.<ref>{{cite web | url= https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/051412zor.pdf<br />
| title=CERTIORARI -- SUMMARY DISPOSITION}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
*[[Macintosh clone]]<br />
*[[IMessage#Unofficial_platforms]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{authority control}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:2008 establishments in Florida]]<br />
[[Category:2012 disestablishments in Florida]]<br />
[[Category:American companies established in 2008]]<br />
[[Category:American companies disestablished in 2012]]<br />
[[Category:Computer companies established in 2008]]<br />
[[Category:Computer companies disestablished in 2012]]<br />
[[Category:Defunct computer companies of the United States]]<br />
[[Category:Defunct computer hardware companies]]<br />
[[Category:Defunct computer systems companies]]<br />
[[Category:Macintosh clones]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189910398IMessage2023-12-14T20:18:18Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed typo</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
<br />
Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
<br />
Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
<br />
On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
<br />
=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
<br />
iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
<br />
iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
<br />
In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
<br />
All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
<br />
With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
<br />
Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
<br />
== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
<br />
On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
<br />
On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
<br />
On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
<br />
From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play and became the fastest-growing paid Android app in history, gaining more than 100,000 downloads in the first 48 hours. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again, this time as a free app. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref> The shutdown by Apple led to one US senator expessing criticism of Apple on her X account.<br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage. <ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189910271IMessage2023-12-14T20:17:25Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
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'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
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Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
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Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
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==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
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On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
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On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
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=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
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==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
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==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
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== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
<br />
On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
<br />
From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play and became the fastest-growing paid Android app in history, gaining more than 100,000 downloads in the first 48 hours. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again, this time as a free app. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref> The shutdown by Apple led to one US senator expessing criticism of Apple on her X account.<br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref>.<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189909104IMessage2023-12-14T20:08:30Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
<br />
Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
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Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
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==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
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On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
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On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
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=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
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==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
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==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
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== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
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On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
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On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
<br />
From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play and became the fastest-growing paid Android app in history, gaining more than 100,000 downloads in the first 48 hours. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again, this time as a free app. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref> The shutdown by Apple led to one US senator expessing criticism of Apple on her X account.<br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> and news outlets have suggested purple as the designated color for RCS chats on iPhones to differentiate them from iMessage and SMS chats.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189767485IMessage2023-12-13T21:59:19Z<p>Brandon.macuser: removed misleading source</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
<br />
Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
<br />
Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
<br />
On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
<br />
=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
<br />
iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
<br />
Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
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On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
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From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> and news outlets have suggested purple as the designated color for RCS chats on iPhones to differentiate them from iMessage and SMS chats.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189767172IMessage2023-12-13T21:57:06Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
<br />
Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
<br />
Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
<br />
On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
<br />
=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
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== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
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On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
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On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
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From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
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On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
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On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play. A few days after the launch, it was briefly shut down by Apple, but resumed operations again. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-08 |title=Beeper Mini is down, and we're learning what that will mean for its future |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/beeper-mini-down-3392963/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Android Authority |language=en |quote=no explanation for the outage yet, but a recent episode of the WVFRM podcast discussing Beeper Mini at length may be part of the problem, as Beeper is likely experiencing a massive influx of new users.}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
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In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
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[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
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On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> and news outlets have suggested purple as the designated color for RCS chats on iPhones to differentiate them from iMessage and SMS chats.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189766584IMessage2023-12-13T21:52:39Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms - including [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]] - as part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
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Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
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Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
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On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
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On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as data company that provides "App Store Optimization (ASO)", as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur shipped with a redesigned version of Messages, with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, [[Implementation of emojis|memoji]], stickers and location sharing.<br />
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=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) that the appeal was on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''[[Bloomberg News|Bloomberg]]'' speculated that this "tentative" decision was reached because while iMessage's userbase is large enough to qualify, the service is not popular enough with businesses, specifically.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-06 |title=Apple Set to Avoid EU Crackdown Over iMessage Service |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-06/apple-imessage-set-to-avoid-eu-s-digital-dominance-crackdown |access-date=2023-12-12}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
<br />
On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
<br />
On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
<br />
From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> It quickly reached the top five free communications apps on Google Play. A few days after the launch, the app stopped working.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-08 |title=Beeper Mini is down, and we're learning what that will mean for its future |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/beeper-mini-down-3392963/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Android Authority |language=en |quote=no explanation for the outage yet, but a recent episode of the WVFRM podcast discussing Beeper Mini at length may be part of the problem, as Beeper is likely experiencing a massive influx of new users.}}</ref> It was shut down by Apple the following day.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> It resumed operations later that week.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2023-12-11 |title=Beeper Mini Returns, But For How Long? |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2023/12/11/beeper-mini-update-apple-confirms-block-beeper-thinks-it-can-fix/ |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=Droid Life |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from Fall 2023, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> and news outlets have suggested purple as the designated color for RCS chats on iPhones to differentiate them from iMessage and SMS chats.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Beeper&diff=1189439429Beeper2023-12-11T21:02:09Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{wiktionary|beeper}}<br />
'''Beeper''' may refer to:<br />
<br />
== Music ==<br />
* [[Beeper (song)|"Beeper" (song)]], the debut single by The Count and Sinden<br />
* [[The Beepers]], an American band<br />
* "Beepers", a song by American rapper Sir Mix-a-Lot from the 1989 album ''[[Seminar (album)|Seminar]]''<br />
<br />
== Other uses ==<br />
* Beeper (app), for using [[iMessage]] on non-Apple devices<br />
* [[Pager]]<br />
* [[Buzzer]]<br />
* "Beeper", general designation for the small internal speaker (usually [[Piezoelectric speaker|piezoelectric]]) common in early [[Microcomputer|microcomputers]] like the [[ZX Spectrum]], [[Apple II Plus]], [[Apple IIe]], [[Acorn Atom]], [[Amstrad PCW]], [[Jupiter Ace]], [[PC-8800 series]], etc.<br />
* [[PC speaker]], the internal loudspeaker integrated into most [[IBM PC compatible]] computers <br />
* A device which makes a [[beep (sound)|beep]]<br />
* [[Avalanche transceiver]]<br />
* [[Beeper (film)|''Beeper'' (film)]], a 2002 film<br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
* [[Beep (disambiguation)]]<br />
<br />
{{disambiguation}}</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189439265IMessage2023-12-11T21:01:01Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms: [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]], part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><!-- Apple uses the phrase "lock in" in court evidence pertaining to iMessage. To debate its use here, please refer to the Talk page of this article. --><br />
<br />
Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
<br />
Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
<br />
On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|first=Zach|last=Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jim |last=Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |work=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur ships with a redesigned version of Messages with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, memojis, stickers and location sharing.<br />
<br />
=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
<br />
iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.<br />
<br />
iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|first=MG |last=Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
<br />
In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
<br />
All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
<br />
With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
<br />
Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
<br />
== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
<br />
On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|first=Paul|last=Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
<br />
On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
<br />
On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
<br />
From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=2023-12-05 |title=Beeper Mini for Android sends and receives iMessages, no Mac server required |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Ars Technica |language=en-us}}</ref> A few days after the launch, the app stopped working; some speculated it was from high server loads its new-found popularity.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-08 |title=Beeper Mini is down, and we're learning what that will mean for its future |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/beeper-mini-down-3392963/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=Android Authority |language=en |quote=no explanation for the outage yet, but a recent episode of the WVFRM podcast discussing Beeper Mini at length may be part of the problem, as Beeper is likely experiencing a massive influx of new users.}}</ref> It was shut down by Apple the following day.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Welch |first=Chris |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple has seemingly found a way to block Android’s new iMessage app |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> It resumed operations later that week.<br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|first=Suzanne|last=Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an [[Federal Bureau of Investigation|FBI]] document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref> Reuters also reported that Apple had plans to encrypt [[iCloud]] backups of iMessage data, but dropped those plans after the FBI complained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menn |first=Joseph |date=January 21, 2020 |title=Exclusive: Apple dropped plan for encrypting backups after FBI complained - sources |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-fbi-icloud-exclusive/exclusive-apple-dropped-plan-for-encrypting-backups-after-fbi-complained-sources-idUSKBN1ZK1CT/ |website=Reuters}}</ref><br />
<br />
[[Eric Migicovsky]], founder of third-party iMessage client Beeper Mini, has criticized Apple for preventing iMessage access on Android phones. Migicovsky argues that it is hypocritical of Apple to claim iMessage is private and secure while simultaneously allowing only SMS messages when communicating with users on non-Apple devices (such as [[Android (operating system)|Android]]), even when alternatives exist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-08 |title=Apple cuts off Beeper Mini's access after launch of service that brought iMessage to Android |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/08/apple-cuts-off-beeper-minis-access-after-launch-of-service-that-brought-imessage-to-android/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref> Apple has implied that third-party applications like Beeper Mini are less secure because "techniques posed significant risks to user security and privacy, including the potential for metadata exposure and enabling unwanted messages, spam, and phishing attacks."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pierce |first=David |date=2023-12-10 |title=Apple responds to the Beeper iMessage saga: ‘We took steps to protect our users’ |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/9/23995150/beeper-imessage-android-apple-statement |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> All four of the security and privacy risks suggested by Apple's statement also apply to SMS, which iMessage uses for fallback when communicating with non-iMessage users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geller |first=Eric |date=2016-05-17 |title=Study shows phone metadata is much more sensitive than top spies admit |url=https://www.dailydot.com/debug/surveillance-phone-metadata-identifiable-stanford-study/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=The Daily Dot |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merryweather |first=Lauren |date=2021-06-29 |title=Three in five people have received a scam delivery text in the past year - Which? News |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/three-in-five-people-have-received-a-scam-delivery-text-in-the-last-year-aA3fF1B3qT81 |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Which? |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-02-19 |title=How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages |url=https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=Consumer Advice |language=en}}</ref> Apple has long-resisted bringing iMessage to non-Apple devices, with CEO Tim Cook previously offering the solution of "buy your mom an iPhone" when questioned at Code Conference about a better way to message with family that uses Android. [[Massachusetts]] [[Senate|Senator]] [[Elizabeth Warren]] commented on the conflict between Beeper Mini and Apple, [[Twitter|tweeting]]: "Green bubble texts are less secure. So why would Apple block a new app allowing Android users to chat with iPhone users on iMessage? [[Big Tech]] executives are protecting profits by squashing competitors. Chatting between different platforms should be easy and secure."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Wes |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Elizabeth Warren weighs in on Beeper’s fight with Apple. |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/10/23996021/senator-elizabeth-warren-weighs-in-on-beepers-fight-with-apple |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=2023-12-10 |title=Senator Warren calls out Apple for shutting down Beeper's 'iMessage to Android' solution |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/12/10/senator-warren-calls-out-apple-for-shutting-down-beepers-imessage-to-android-solution/ |access-date=2023-12-10 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from this Fall, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims have been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |first1=Kimberly |last1=Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> A study by car insurance company Jerry also found that "young iPhone users who make money don’t seem to date someone who is using an Android device. Some users said that they don’t even text someone who didn’t have an iPhone."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |title=Sorry iPhone Fans, Android Users Are Safer Drivers {{!}} GetJerry.com |url=https://getjerry.com/studies/sorry-iphone-fans-android-users-are-safer-drivers |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=getjerry.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Karan |date=2022-05-11 |title=iPhone Users "Don’t Want To Date Android Users" And Are The Worst Drivers Too; This New Study Claims So |url=https://in.mashable.com/tech/31532/iphone-users-dont-want-to-date-android-users-and-are-the-worst-drivers-too-this-new-study-claims-so |access-date=2023-12-09 |website=Mashable India |language=en-in}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 16, 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> and news outlets have suggested purple as the designated color for RCS chats on iPhones to differentiate them from iMessage and SMS chats.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1189026661IMessage2023-12-09T05:49:21Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms: [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]], part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><br />
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Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
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Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
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On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|author=Zach Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|author=Jim Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |publisher=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
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On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur ships with a redesigned version of Messages with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, memojis, stickers and location sharing.<br />
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=== Digital Markets Act (European Union) ===<br />
{{Main article|Digital Markets Act}}<br />
In 2022, iMessage was included on a list of potential "gatekeepers" to be regulated by new legislation in the European Union.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Set to Challenge Latest EU Crackdown on Big Tech Dominance |language=en |work=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-10/apple-to-appeal-digital-markets-act-over-app-store-at-eu-court |access-date=2023-12-08}}</ref> This would have required iMessage to be interoperable with other messaging services that either serve a certain number of users or generates significant revenue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=November 10, 2023 |title=Apple to appeal EU ruling that forces company to make changes to the ‘gatekeeper’ App Store and iMessage |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/10/appeal-appeal-eu-gatekeeper-app-store/ |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> Apple appealed the inclusion of iMessage, with media outlets speculating (because Apple does not release data on user volume) on the grounds that the iMessage userbase in Europe was not large enough to warrant labeling iMessage as a gatekeeper.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-10 |title=Apple Will Reportedly Appeal EU's Gatekeeping Claims |url=https://gizmodo.com/apple-will-reportedly-appeal-eus-gatekeeping-claims-1851011406 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Gizmodo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mayo |first=Benjamin |date=2023-09-10 |title=Report: Apple claims iMessage not big enough to fall under purview of EU ‘gatekeeper’ competition law |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/09/04/imessage-app-store-gatekeeper-not-big-enough/#:~:text=Report%3A%20Apple%20claims%20iMessage%20not,%27gatekeeper%27%20competition%20law%20%2D%209to5Mac |website=9to5Mac}}</ref> In December 2023, several media outlets reported that the appeal was successful.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MSN |url=https://www.msn.com/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=www.msn.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Chris |date=2023-12-07 |title=Surprise: There's no such thing as blue vs. green bubbles in Europe |url=https://bgr.com/tech/imessage-wont-be-a-gatekeeper-service-heres-why-im-not-surprised/ |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=BGR |language=en-US}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|author=MG Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
<br />
With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
In November 2023, Apple announced that iMessage would be getting [[Rich Communication Services|RCS]] support in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=2023-11-16 |title=Apple says iPhones will support RCS in 2024 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964171/apple-iphone-rcs-support |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
<br />
Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only officially available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage is designed to be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
<br />
== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
<br />
On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|author=Paul Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
<br />
On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
<br />
On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
<br />
From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ }}</ref> It was shut down by Apple three days later. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/8/23994089/apple-beeper-mini-android-blocked-imessage-app }}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|author=Suzanne Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an FBI document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from this Fall, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims has been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |author1=Kimberly Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> <br />
<br />
On November 16th 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> and news outlets have suggested purple as the designated color for RCS chats on iPhones to differentiate them from iMessage and SMS chats.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=IMessage&diff=1188830268IMessage2023-12-07T23:28:02Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|Instant messaging service by Apple}}<br />
{{Distinguish|Messages (Apple)}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2018}}<br />
{{lowercase title}}<br />
{{Infobox online service<br />
| name = iMessage<br />
| logo = iMessage logo (Apple Inc.).png<br />
| image = Messages iOS 7 Screenshot.png<br />
| image_size = 200px<br />
| caption = A thread of conversation and media in the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application on [[iOS 8]]<br />
| collapsible =<br />
| developer = [[Apple Inc.]]<br />
| launched = {{Start date and age|2011|10|12}} <br />
| discontinued = <br />
| latest release version =<br />
| latest release date =<br />
| programming language = <br />
| operating system = [[iOS 5]] and later, [[iPadOS]], [[OS X Mountain Lion]] and later, [[watchOS]]<br />
| platform = [[iPhone]], [[Apple Watch]], [[iPad]], [[iPod Touch]], [[Macintosh|Mac]]<br />
| size = <br />
| language = <br />
| status = Active<br />
| type = [[Instant messaging]]<br />
| website = {{URL|support.apple.com/explore/messages}}<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''iMessage''' is an [[instant messaging]] service developed by [[Apple Inc.]] and launched in 2011. iMessage functions exclusively on Apple platforms: [[macOS]], [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], and [[watchOS]], part of Apple's broader [[Apple ecosystem|strategy]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-13 |title=Apple's Lock-in |url=https://www.techconstant.com/apples-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=Tech Constant |language=en}}</ref> of [[vendor lock-in]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kellen |date=2021-04-09 |title=Apple Admits Why It Keeps iMessage Off Android |url=https://www.droid-life.com/2021/04/08/apple-android-imessage-lock-in/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=www.droid-life.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple confirms iMessage locks users into iOS, and putting it on Android would hurt Apple |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/apple-confirms-imessage-locks-users-into-ios-and-putting-it-on-android-would-hurt-apple/ |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=ZDNET |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple’s iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-12-03 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple iMessage Is a Lock-In Abomination |url=https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/apple-imessage-is-a-lock-in-abomination |access-date=2023-12-03 |website=PCMAG |language=en}}</ref><br />
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Core features of iMessage, available on all supported platforms, include sending [[Text messaging|text messages]], images, videos, and documents; getting delivery and read statuses (read receipts); and [[end-to-end encryption]] so only the sender and recipient can read the messages, and no one else, including Apple itself, can read them. The service also allows sending location data and [[Sticker (messaging)|stickers]]. On iOS and iPadOS, third-party developers can extend iMessage capabilities with custom extensions, an example being quick sharing of recently played songs.<br />
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Launched on iOS in 2011,<ref>{{cite web|title=iOS&nbsp;5 - See new features included in iOS&nbsp;5|url=https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308031950/https://www.apple.com/ios/features.html|archive-date=March 8, 2012|access-date=October 10, 2011|publisher=Apple}}</ref> iMessage arrived on macOS (then called OS X) in 2012.<ref name="mtnlion">{{cite web|title=OS X Mountain Lion - See everything the new OS X can do.|url=https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615184657/https://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#messages|archive-date=June 15, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2020, Apple announced an entirely redesigned version of the macOS [[Messages (Apple)|Messages app]] which adds some of the features previously unavailable on the Mac, including location sharing and message effects.<br />
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==History==<br />
iMessage was announced by [[Scott Forstall]] at the [[Apple Worldwide Developers Conference|WWDC 2011]] keynote on June 6, 2011. A version of the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app for [[iOS]] with support for iMessage was included in the [[iOS 5]] update on October 12, 2011. On February 16, 2012, Apple announced that a new Messages app replacing [[iChat]] would be part of [[OS X Mountain Lion]].<ref name="mtnlion" /> Mountain Lion was released on July 25, 2012.<br />
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On October 23, 2012, Apple CEO, Tim Cook announced that Apple device users have sent 300 billion messages using iMessage and that Apple delivers an average of 28,000 messages per second.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bgr.com/2012/10/23/apple-ipad-mini-event/|title=Apple Kicks Off iPad Mini Event: 3 Million New iPods Sold, iOS 6 Now On 200 Million Devices|author=Zach Epstein|publisher=[[Boy Genius Report]]|date=October 23, 2012|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref> In February 2016, [[Eddy Cue]] announced that the number of iMessages sent per second had grown to 200,000.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Leswing|first1=Kif|title=Apple says people send as many as 200,000 iMessages per second|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/eddy-cue-200k-imessages-per-second-2016-2|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=Business Insider|date=February 12, 2016}}</ref><br />
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In May 2014, a lawsuit was filed against Apple over an issue where, if a user switched from an Apple device to a non-Apple device, messages being delivered to them through iMessage would not reach their destination.<ref>{{cite news|author=Jim Edwards |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-lawsuit-iphones-dont-deliver-texts-to-android-2014-5 |title=Apple Lawsuit iPhones Don't Deliver Texts To Android |publisher=Business Insider |date=May 16, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-05-16/apple-sued-over-vanishing-texts-after-iphones-swapped-out-1-.html|title=Apple Sued Over Vanishing Texts After IPhones Swapped Out|first1=Joel|last1=Rosenblatt|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.]]|date=May 16, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014 Apple addressed this problem by providing instructions and an online tool to deregister iMessage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://support.apple.com/en-us/TS5185 |title=If you can't receive text messages from an iPhone - Apple Support |publisher=Support.apple.com |date=September 5, 2017 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://selfsolve.apple.com/deregister-imessage |title=Deregister and Turn Off iMessage - Apple Support |publisher=Selfsolve.apple.com |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> A federal court dismissed the suit in Apple's favor.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Slotnick|first1=Stacy|title=Apple Avoids Class Action Lawsuit Over iMessages|url=http://urbangeekz.com/2015/08/apple-avoids-class-action-lawsuit-over-imessages/|access-date=December 20, 2016|work=UrbanGeekz|date=August 12, 2015}}</ref><br />
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On March 21, 2016, a group of researchers from [[Johns Hopkins University]] published a report in which they demonstrated that an attacker in possession of iMessage [[ciphertext]]s could potentially decrypt photos and videos that had been sent via the service. The researchers published their findings after the vulnerability had been [[Patch (computing)|patched]] by Apple.<ref>{{harvnb|Garman|Green|Kaptchuk|Miers|2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Nakashima|first1=Ellen|title=Johns Hopkins researchers poke a hole in Apple's encryption|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/johns-hopkins-researchers-discovered-encryption-flaw-in-apples-imessage/2016/03/20/a323f9a0-eca7-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html|newspaper=The Washington Post|publisher=Nash Holdings LLC|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}</ref><br />
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On June 13, 2016, Apple announced the addition of Apps to iMessage service, accessible via the Messages apps. Apps can create and share content, add stickers, make payments, and more within iMessage conversations without having to switch to standalone apps. One could develop standalone iMessage apps or an extension to existing iOS apps. Publishers can also create standalone stickers apps without writing any code.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://developer.apple.com/imessage/|title=iMessage - Apple Developer|website=developer.apple.com|access-date=September 23, 2016}}</ref> According to Sensor Tower, as of March 2017 the iMessage App Store features nearly 5,000 Message-enabled apps.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/16/six-months-in-imessage-app-store-growth-slows-as-developers-lose-interest/|title=Six months in, iMessage App Store growth slows as developers lose interest|last=Perez|first=Sarah|website=TechCrunch|date=March 16, 2017 |access-date=March 17, 2017}}</ref><br />
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At the WWDC 2020 keynote on June 22, 2020, Apple previewed [[MacOS Big Sur|the next version]] of its [[macOS]] operating system, planned for release in late 2020. Big Sur ships with a redesigned version of Messages with features previously available only on iOS devices, such as message effects, memojis, stickers and location sharing.<br />
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==Features==<br />
[[File:iMessage Compose.png|thumb|A blank new message created with the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] application running on [[iOS 15]] on an [[iPhone]]. When the sender is sending an iMessage, the "Send" button will appear blue notifying the message that is about to be sent is an iMessage instead of an SMS.]]<br />
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iMessage allows users to send texts, documents, photos, videos, contact information, and group messages over the Internet to other [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] users. iMessage is an alternative to the [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] messaging for most users with devices running iOS&nbsp;5 or later. The "Send as SMS" setting under Messages will cause the message to be sent via SMS if the sender does not have an active Internet connection. If the receiver has no Internet connection, the message should be stored on a server until a connection is restored.<br />
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iMessage is accessible through the [[Messages (Apple)|Messages]] app on an [[iPhone]], [[iPad]] or [[iPod Touch]] running iOS 5 or later, or on a [[Macintosh|Mac]] running OS X Mountain Lion or later. Owners of these devices can register one or more [[email address]]es with Apple. Additionally, iPhone owners can register their phone numbers with Apple, provided their carrier is supported. When a message is sent to a mobile number, Messages will check with Apple if the mobile number is set up for iMessage. If it is not, the message will seamlessly transition from iMessage to SMS.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|author=MG Siegler |url=https://techcrunch.com/2011/06/06/apple-imessages/ |title=Apple Has Finally Stuck A Dagger Into SMS. I Love It. |publisher=TechCrunch |date=June 6, 2011|access-date=February 17, 2013}}</ref><br />
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In Messages, the user's sent communication is aligned to the right, with replies from other people on the left. A user can see if the other iMessage user is typing a message. A pale gray [[ellipsis]] appears in the text bubble of the other user when a reply is started. It is also possible to start a conversation on one iOS device and continue it on another.<ref name=":0"/> On iPhones, green buttons and text bubbles indicate SMS-based communication; on all iOS devices, blue buttons and text bubbles indicate iMessage communication.<br />
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All iMessages are encrypted and can be tracked using delivery receipts.<ref>{{cite press release |publisher=Apple Inc. |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2011/06/06New-Version-of-iOS-Includes-Notification-Center-iMessage-Newsstand-Twitter-Integration-Among-200-New-Features/ |title=New Version of iOS Includes Notification Center, iMessage, Newsstand, Twitter Integration Among 200 New Features |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=October 1, 2013}}</ref> If the recipient enables Read Receipts, the sender will be able to see when the recipient has read the message. iMessage also allows users to set up chats with more than two people—a "group chat".<br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 10]], users can send messages accompanied by a range of "bubble" or "screen" effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igeeksblog.com/how-to-add-screen-effects-to-imessages-in-ios-10/|title=How to Send iMessage with Screen Effect on iPhone and iPad|last=Padhiyar|first=Jignesh|date=3 January 2019|website=iGeekBlog}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechcliq.com/how-to-use-and-send-imessage-with-effects/|title=How to use and send iMessage with Effects (Bubble and Screen)|last=Navodiya|first=Nurdin|date=8 August 2019|website=iTechCliq}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://itechperry.com/imessage-effects/|title=How to use Bubble and Screen Effects with iMessage in iOS 16.3|last=Gupta|first=Mukesh|date=3 April 2023|website=iTechPerry}}</ref> By holding down the send button with force, the range of effects is surfaced for users to select from.<br />
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With the launches of [[iOS 14]] and [[MacOS Big Sur|macOS 11 Big Sur]], users gain a myriad of features such as the ability to pin individual conversations, mention other users, set an image for group conversations, and send inline replies. Additionally, more of the features from the Messages app on [[iOS]] and [[iPadOS]] were ported over to their [[macOS]] counterpart.<ref>{{cite web|title=macOS Big Sur Preview - Features|url=https://www.apple.com/macos/big-sur-preview/features/|access-date=2020-06-22|website=Apple|language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 15|iOS 15.2]], Apple added automated blurring of photos containing explicit images that are sent to underage users. The feature relies on scanning the photos on the device and can optionally be set to alert the underage user's parents if explicit material is received. The feature was originally launched only for the US with a later expansion to the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The feature remains regionally restricted for the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/13/22828226/apple-ios-15-2-iphone-update-digital-legacy-music-macro-app-privacy|title=Apple releases iOS 15.2 with App Privacy Report, Digital Legacy, and more|last=Clark|first=Mitchell|date=13 December 2021|website=TheVerge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/21/23035183/ios-messages-communication-safety-nudity-sexually-explicit-message-blurring|title=Apple's nudity-blurring Messages feature gets international release|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=21 April 2022|website=The Verge|access-date=21 April 2022}}</ref><br />
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With the launch of [[iOS 16]], Apple added the ability for users to edit and unsend sent iMessages. Users can unsend an iMessage for up to 2 minutes after it being sent, and can edit it for up to 15 minutes. Users also have the ability to recover deleted messages for up to 30 days.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iOS 16 |url=https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16/ |access-date=2022-09-15 |website=Apple |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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==Technology==<br />
The iMessage protocol is based on the [[Apple Push Notification service]] (APNs)—a proprietary, [[binary protocol]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kumparak |first1=Greg |date=February 27, 2014 |title=Apple Explains Exactly How Secure iMessage Really Is |url=https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/27/apple-explains-exactly-how-secure-imessage-really-is/ |website=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> It sets up a Keep-Alive connection with the Apple servers. Every connection has its own unique code, which acts as an identifier for the route that should be used to send a message to a specific device. The connection is encrypted with TLS using a client-side certificate, that is requested by the device on the activation of iMessage.<br />
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Each message recipient's public keys are retrieved from Apple Identity Service (IDS), "Apple's directory of iMessage public keys, Apple Push Notification service (APNs) addresses, and phone numbers and email addresses that are used to look up the keys and device addresses."<ref>{{cite web |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=Apple Identity Service (IDS) |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/aside/secf752dc2e2/1/web/1}}</ref> Each message is individually encrypted for each recipient device in a conversation. Message attachments are encrypted and uploaded to [[iCloud]] to be retrieved separately by the recipient. Messages are stored on Apple servers for up to 30 days.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 13, 2022 |access-date=September 8, 2022 |title=How iMessage sends and receives messages securely |url=https://support.apple.com/guide/security/how-imessage-sends-and-receives-messages-sec70e68c949/web}}</ref><br />
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== Platforms ==<br />
iMessage is only available on Apple operating systems, such as [[iOS]], [[iPadOS]], [[macOS]], and [[watchOS]]. Unlike some other messaging apps, it does not have compatibility for [[Android (operating system)|Android]] or [[Microsoft Windows]], and does not have any web access/interface. This means iMessage must be accessed using the app on a device using an Apple operating system.<br />
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== Unofficial platforms ==<br />
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|<br />
{{Unreliable sources|section|date=February 2021}}<br />
{{Summarize section|date=February 2021}}<br />
}}<br />
iMessage is only officially supported on Apple devices, but many apps exist that forward iMessages to devices that don't run Apple's operating system. The iMessage forwarding apps achieve this by creating an iMessage server on an [[iOS]] or [[macOS]] device that forwards the messages to a client on any other device, including [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], and [[Linux]] machines. The apps that use an iOS device as a server require the device to be [[IOS jailbreaking|jailbroken]].<br />
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On November 23, 2012, Beast Soft released the first version of their Remote Messages jailbreak tweak for [[iOS 5]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=272099457754095616 |date=November 23, 2012 |title=Remote Messages v1.0 is now available on Cydia. (Browser based front-end for the iOS Messages app). |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Remote Messages created an iMessage and SMS server on the iOS device that could be accessed by any other internet enabled device through a web app. Remote Messages had the ability to send any attachments from the client device, as well as sending photos from the iOS server device through the web app. Beast Soft would continue to update Remote Messages through October 2015, supporting all iOS versions from iOS 5 through [[iOS 9]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Beast Soft |user=beastsoft |number=659064119635615744 |date=October 27, 2015 |title=Remote Messages 3.2 for iOS 9 is now live on the BigBoss repo. It's a free update. Please let us know if anything isn't working. |language=en |access-date=December 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508202148/https://twitter.com/beastsoft/status/659064119635615744 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On May 3, 2016, an independent open-source project named "PieMessage" was announced by app developer Eric Chee,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2016/05/03/piemessage-imessage-open-source-android-app/ |title=PieMessage open-source project brings iMessage to Android using your Mac as a server |publisher=9to5Mac |date=May 3, 2016 |access-date=October 14, 2018}}</ref> consisting of code for OS X that communicates with iMessage and connects to an [[Android (operating system)|Android]] client, allowing the Android client to send and receive messages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2016/5/4/11591008/piemessage-imessage-android|title=PieMessage project brings iMessage to Android|author=Paul Miller|date=May 4, 2016|publisher=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{GitHub|bboyairwreck/PieMessage}}</ref><br />
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On October 16, 2017, following inactivity from Beast Soft as well as a monetary bounty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/TweakBounty/comments/6e28dy/501011_remotemessages_alternative/|title=&#91;$50&#93;&#91;10.1.1&#93; RemoteMessages alternative|date=May 29, 2017}}</ref> requesting an iMessage tweak compatible with [[iOS 10]], SparkDev released AirMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=920037963605700609 |date=October 16, 2017 |title=[Release][$3.99] AirMessage - A Remote Messages Alternative for iOS 10 https://t.co/uNeLflxO3m |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> AirMessage was similar to Remote Messages in that the client was accessed through a web app, however it was more limited in features and did not support sending attachments like Remote Messages previously had. AirMessage also did not add support for any of the new iMessage features of iOS 10, such as tapback reactions or screen effects. AirMessage was updated through June 2020, ending with support for iOS 10 through [[iOS 13]].<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Spark |user=SparkDev_ |number=1277897359842783232 |date=June 30, 2020 |title=AirMessage Beta 3.0.4~Beta1 is now on the repo for Member Plus! Brings full iOS 13 support and various bug fixes and improvements. Enjoy :) https://t.co/jlHF7s5wmf |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630093805/https://twitter.com/SparkDev_/status/1277897359842783232 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On December 10, 2017, 16-year-old developer Roman Scott released weMessage, the first publicly available Android app that forwarded iMessages from a macOS server device to an Android client.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/Kmp1SRhnPos Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20171212223542/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmp1SRhnPos| title = weMessage - iMessage For Android | website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=939963245149990913 |date=December 10, 2017 |title=weMessage allows you to use iMessage from an Android device. It has finally been published on the Play Store! Check it out! https://t.co/AziLjtoItl #imessage #android #bluebubble |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> Scott released two substantial updates to weMessage, the first of which added iMessage screen effects and bug fixes<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=948248680091537408 |date=January 2, 2018 |title=Version 1.1 has been released! This release adds Contact Sync, Message Effects (like fireworks and invisible ink), and "fixes" messages not showing up. I had no idea how many people wanted Contact Sync! Thanks to everyone who suggested it, and keep recommending more features. |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> and the second of which added [[SMS]] and [[Multimedia Messaging Service|MMS]] support, as well as fixes for contact syncing and server management.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=965938573986983936 |date=February 20, 2018 |title=Version 1.2 has been released! It adds FULL SMS and MMS support, Contact Sync for phone contacts, a Contact List Screen, the ability to delete contacts, Failover IP Addresses, a Retry Send button, notification badges, fixed notifications and Mac Contact Sync, and more! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021}}</ref> On November 11, 2018, citing his inability to spend more time on the project, Scott open-sourced weMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Scott |first=Roman |user=TheRomanScott |number=1061652187456176129 |date=November 11, 2018 |title=Hey! I have decided to open source weMessage due to my inability to work on it due to time constraints: https://t.co/Q177muYGug. If you would like to donate to the project, a link is included on that page. Thank you all for your continued support of this project! |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112004057/https://twitter.com/TheRomanScott/status/1061652187456176129 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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On February 22, 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.tagavari.airmessage&hl=en_US&gl=US|title = AirMessage - Apps on Google Play}}</ref> independent developer Cole Feuer released the AirMessage app for Android.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/blog/introducing-a-new-era-of-messaging-airmessage-cloud|title=Introducing a new era of messaging: AirMessage Cloud|website=AirMessage|date=October 9, 2020|first=Cole|last=Feuer}}</ref> Feuer's AirMessage coincidentally shares a name with SparkDev's iOS tweak, but AirMessage for Android is not in any way related to the AirMessage jailbreak tweak. AirMessage for Android includes code for a server running on [[OS X Yosemite]] and higher, and an Android client that runs on [[Android 6]] and higher that can send and receive iMessages.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://airmessage.org/about|title=About|website=AirMessage}}</ref> Like weMessage, AirMessage has support for displaying, but not sending, screen effects, and AirMessage also has the ability to display tapback messages and send tapback notifications. In January 2020, Feuer released an update that added SMS and MMS capabilities, as well as web link previews, a photo gallery viewer, and the ability to send a location message.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AirMessage/comments/encoos/airmessage_05_texting_integration_smarter/|title = AirMessage 0.5 - Texting integration, smarter tapbacks, and a happy new year!|date = January 11, 2020}}</ref><br />
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On August 15, 2020, Ian Welker released SMServer as a [[Free and open-source software|free and open-source]] iOS jailbreak tweak for iOS 13 that uses a web app client.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/i7v04g/free_release_smserver_send_texts_from_your/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; SMServer - send texts from your browser - Available on Twickd now!|date = August 11, 2020}}</ref> Welker maintains an API on his GitHub page with extensive documentation on how to use the IMCore and ChatKit libraries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/iandwelker/smserver/blob/master/docs/IMCore_and_ChatKit.md|title = SMServer|website = [[GitHub]]|date = November 17, 2021}}</ref> SMServer was the first app to support iOS 14 and macOS Big Sur features of iMessage, such as group chat photos and displaying pinned conversations. It was also the first app to support remote sending of tapback messages and subject line text.<br />
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On August 21, 2020, Eric Rabil released a video showcasing his upcoming server and web app, MyMessage.<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Rabil |first=Eric |user=ericrabil |number=1296844967990775809 |date=August 21, 2020 |title=Coming soon to a browser near you https://t.co/WLPCq52W36 |language=en |access-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821162224/https://twitter.com/ericrabil/status/1296844967990775809 |archive-date=August 21, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date=August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage was the first app to showcase support for sending tapback messages and receiving digital touch and handwritten messages, which Rabil claimed to have achieved by writing code that directly communicated with the iMessage service rather than using AppleScript and reading the database.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/ie0ckj/upcoming_mymessage_the_full_imessage_experience/g2dh32g|title = &#91;Upcoming&#93; MyMessage – the full iMessage experience from a browser. Follow me at @ericrabil on Twitter for more updates|date = August 21, 2020}}</ref> MyMessage is the only app to run its server on both macOS and iOS, but as of February 2021, only the server component of MyMessage has been released, with the web app frontend still receiving stability development.<br />
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From August 2020 through October 2020, a free and open-source project called BlueBubbles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bluebubbles.app |title=iMessage on PC and Android - BlueBubbles |publisher=Bluebubbles.app |date= |accessdate=2022-08-07}}</ref> was publicly released. BlueBubbles was built to address some of the difficulties and limitations of AirMessage for Android, such as the fact that AirMessage was closed source, required port forwarding, and had no native apps for operating systems such as [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Linux]]. BlueBubbles requires a server running [[MacOS High Sierra]] or higher, and like AirMessage, it has some limitations on MacOS Big Sur. In November and December 2020, BlueBubbles added the ability to send and receive typing indicators from the Android app, as well as the ability to send read receipts and tapback messages. (both on Android)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://github.com/BlueBubblesApp/BlueBubbles-Server/wiki/Using-Private-API-Features|title=Using Private API Features · BlueBubblesApp/Bluebubbles-server Wiki|website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref><br />
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On January 29, 2021, Aziz Hasanain released a free and open-source jailbreak tweak called WebMessage for [[iOS 12]] through iOS 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/l7pepo/free_release_webmessage_your_messages_on_every/|title = &#91;Free Release&#93; WebMessage - Your messages, on every device|date = January 29, 2021}}</ref> Hasanain used Welker's documentation of the IMCore and ChatKit libraries to assist his development of WebMessage,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/jailbreak/comments/kfp109/upcoming_webmessage_send_receive_texts_from_the/|title=&#91;Upcoming&#93; WebMessage - Send & receive texts from the comfort of your computer|date=December 18, 2020}}</ref> which is the first jailbreak tweak to use a downloaded app as the client instead of a web app.<br />
<br />
On December 5, 2023, an entirely independent product resulting from the reverse engineering of the iMessage protocol was unveiled, named Beeper Mini and released for Android. <ref>{{cite web|url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/12/beeper-mini-on-android-claims-to-have-reverse-engineered-imessage-compatibility/ }}</ref><br />
<br />
==Reception==<br />
<br />
On November 12, 2012, Chetan Sharma, a technology and strategy consulting firm, published the US Mobile Data Market Update Q3 2012, noting the decline of [[text messaging]] in the United States, and suggested the decline may be attributed to Americans using alternative free messaging services such as iMessage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114050414/https://www.nbcnews.com/technology/technolog/text-messaging-decline-us-says-report-1C7040450|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 14, 2012|title=Text messaging is on decline in US, says report|author=Suzanne Choney|access-date=February 17, 2013|publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, [[Google]] announced they would compete with iMessage with their own messaging service, [[Messages (Google)|Messages]] (formerly Android Messages).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2017-03-09/gva-s-garrity-on-alphabet-making-a-push-into-android-messaging|title=GVA's Garrity on Alphabet Making a Push Into Android Messaging|website=Bloomberg.com|access-date=March 14, 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Security and privacy ===<br />
On November 4, 2014, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF) listed iMessage on its "Secure Messaging Scorecard", giving it a score of 5 out of 7 points. It received points for having communications encrypted in transit, having communications encrypted with keys the provider doesn't have access to ([[end-to-end encryption]]), having past communications secure if the keys are stolen ([[forward secrecy]]), having their security designs well-documented, and having a recent independent [[Information technology security audit|security audit]]. It missed points because users can not verify contacts' identities and because the source code is not open to independent review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eff.org/node/82654|title=Secure Messaging Scorecard. Which apps and tools actually keep your messages safe?|date=November 4, 2014|publisher=Electronic Frontier Foundation|access-date=September 26, 2016}}</ref> In September 2015, [[Matthew D. Green|Matthew Green]] noted that, because iMessage does not display [[Public key fingerprint|key fingerprints]] for out-of-band verification, users are unable to verify that a [[man-in-the-middle attack]] has not occurred. The post also noted that iMessage uses RSA key exchange. This means that, as opposed to what EFF's scorecard claims, iMessage does not feature [[forward secrecy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.cryptographyengineering.com/2015/09/lets-talk-about-imessage-again.html|title=Let's talk about iMessage (again)|last=Green|first=Matthew|author-link=Matthew D. Green|date=September 8, 2015|work=A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering|type=Blog|access-date=March 22, 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
On August 7, 2019, researchers from [[Project Zero]] presented 6 "interaction-less" exploits in iMessage that could be used to take over control of a user's device.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/imessage-interactionless-hacks-google-project-zero/|title=Hackers Can Break Into an iPhone Just by Sending a Text|last=Newman|first=Lily Hay|date=2019-08-07|magazine=Wired|access-date=2019-08-09|issn=1059-1028}}</ref> These six exploits have been fixed in iOS 12.4, released on July 22, 2019, however there are still some undisclosed exploits which will be patched in a future update.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210346|title=About the security content of iOS 12.4|website=Apple Support|language=en|access-date=2019-08-09}}</ref> [[Project Pegasus revelations]] in July 2021 found the software used iMessage exploits.<br />
<br />
In 2021, an FBI document obtained by ''Property of the People, Inc.'', a [[501(c)(3)]] nonprofit organization, through an [[Freedom of Information Act (United States)|FOIA]] request, reveals, that [[WhatsApp]] and iMessage are vulnerable to law-enforcement [[Real-time web|real-time]] searches.<ref name="propertyofthepeople/21114562">{{cite web |title=January 2021 FBI Infographic re Lawful Access to Secure Messaging Apps Data |url=https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |website=Property of the People |access-date=9 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827005708/https://propertyofthepeople.org/document-detail/?doc-id=21114562 |archive-date=2022-08-27 |date=November 19, 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="jpost/687360">{{cite news |author1=Ben Zion Gad |title=Can the FBI monitor your WhatsApp conversations? |url=https://www.jpost.com/cybertech/authorities-can-track-your-live-whatsapp-info-fbi-document-says-687360 |access-date=9 October 2022 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=November 30, 2021}}</ref><ref name="rollingstone/1261816">{{cite magazine |last1=Kroll |first1=Andy |title=FBI Document Says the Feds Can Get Your WhatsApp Data -- in Real Time |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/whatsapp-imessage-facebook-apple-fbi-privacy-1261816/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=29 November 2021}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Bullying ===<br />
According to a survey from [[Piper Sandler Companies|Piper Sandler]] from this Fall, 87% of teenagers in America have iPhones.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taking Stock With Teens® |url=https://www.pipersandler.com/teens |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> Claims has been made that the app's use of different colors for messages using iMessage's protocol vs SMS fallback has contributed to social exclusion among some teens.<ref>{{Cite web |author1=Kimberly Gedeon |date=2022-10-08 |title=Green bubble trouble — how Apple geniously employs dark psychology with iMessage |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/features/green-bubble-trouble |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=LaptopMag |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Tim |date=2022-01-08 |title=Why Apple's iMessage Is Winning: Teens Dread the Green Text Bubble |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/why-apples-imessage-is-winning-teens-dread-the-green-text-bubble-11641618009 |access-date=2023-11-11 |issn=0099-9660}}</ref> <br />
<br />
On November 16th 2023, Apple announced [[Rich Communication Services|Rich Communication Services (RCS)]] support coming to iOS the following year,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Espósito |first1=Filipe |title=RCS is coming to iOS, but will it change anything for most iPhone users? |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/rcs-ios-iphone-users/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> although followed up by confirming that the RCS messages will remain green.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Miller |first1=Chance |title=RCS messages will use green bubbles, Apple confirms |url=https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/16/apple-confirms-rcs-messages-will-have-green-bubbles/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> After the news broke, Google revealed that they will be working alongside Apple to implement RCS onto iOS and iMessage,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Li |first1=Abner |title=Google will work with Apple on implementing RCS on iPhone |url=https://9to5google.com/2023/11/16/google-rcs-iphone/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref> and news outlets have suggested purple as the designated color for RCS chats on iPhones to differentiate them from iMessage and SMS chats.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sattelberg |first1=Will |title=Apple is adding RCS support to the iPhone next year |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/apple-rcs-imessage-b/ |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RCS Coming to iMessage in 2024 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3fxCWdF10 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Stein |first1=Scott |title=Will RCS be a purple bubble? |url=https://twitter.com/jetscott/status/1725230518864597248 |access-date=19 November 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
<!-- Please provide brief annotations of how these are relevant to the article. WP:ALSO --><br />
*[[FaceTime]], Apple's [[videotelephony]] service which also uses APNs<br />
*[[Messages (Apple)|Messages]], the required client to use iMessage on Apple's devices<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
==Further reading==<br />
{{Refbegin}}<br />
* {{cite web|last1=Garman|first1=Christina|last2=Green|first2=Matthew|author-link2=Matthew D. Green|last3=Kaptchuk|first3=Gabriel|last4=Miers|first4=Ian|last5=Rushanan|first5=Michael|title=Dancing on the Lip of the Volcano: Chosen Ciphertext Attacks on Apple iMessage|url=https://isi.jhu.edu/~mgreen/imessage.pdf|website=Johns Hopkins Information Security Institute|publisher=Johns Hopkins University|access-date=March 21, 2016|date=March 21, 2016}}<br />
{{Refend}}<br />
<br />
{{iOS}}<br />
{{macOS}}<br />
{{Instant messaging}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Instant messaging protocols]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11887932532023 Kerala bombing2023-12-07T18:52:11Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 8<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women, two man, and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
{{As of|2023|11|21}}, six people have died as a result of the explosion, with three victims belonging to the same family.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=Bureau |first=The Hindu |date=2023-11-16 |title=Death toll in Kalamassery blasts rises to six |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/death-toll-in-kalamassery-blasts-rises-to-six/article67541891.ece |access-date=2023-11-21 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libna, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref> A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libna's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref> The sixth victim was Praveen Pradeepan, older brother of Libna and son of Reena, both of whom had died as a result of their injuries following the blast.<ref name=":1" />seventh victim 78-year-old KV John was undergoing treatment for injuries in the blast has died in 2023 December 02<ref>https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/12/02/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-up-to-seven.html</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
===Dominic Martin=== <br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_University_of_Nevada,_Las_Vegas_shooting&diff=11886563402023 University of Nevada, Las Vegas shooting2023-12-06T20:56:29Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed grammar</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2023}}<br />
<br />
{{Use American English|date=December 2023}}{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = University of Las Vegas shooting<br />
| location = [[University of Nevada, Las Vegas]], United States<br />
| date = December 6, 2023<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|36.10779|N|115.14376|W|source:placeopedia_type:edu|display=inline,title}}<br />
| time = {{circa}} 12:37 p.m.<br />
| type = [[School shooting]]<br />
| weapon = Firearm<br />
| fatalities = 1+ (including the perpetrator)<br />
| injuries = 2+<br />
}}<br />
<br />
On December 6, 2023, a shooting occurred at the [[University of Nevada, Las Vegas]]. The perpetrator opened fire at the Frank and Estella Beam Hall, causing multiple casualties before dying.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Las Vegas police confirm active shooter at UNLV, students sheltering in place: Live updates |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/12/06/unlv-active-shooter-campus/71829055007/ |access-date=2023-12-06 |website=USA TODAY |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
[[Category:School shootings in the United States]]<br />
[[Category:University of Nevada, Las Vegas]]<br />
[[Category:December 2023 crimes in the United States]]<br />
[[Category:University and college shootings in the United States]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11879683002023 Kerala bombing2023-12-02T16:28:14Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 7<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women, one man, and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
{{As of|2023|11|21}}, six people have died as a result of the explosion, with three victims belonging to the same family.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=Bureau |first=The Hindu |date=2023-11-16 |title=Death toll in Kalamassery blasts rises to six |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/death-toll-in-kalamassery-blasts-rises-to-six/article67541891.ece |access-date=2023-11-21 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libna, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref> A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libna's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref> The sixth victim was Praveen Pradeepan, older brother of Libna and son of Reena, both of whom had died as a result of their injuries following the blast.<ref name=":1" /><br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sam_Altman&diff=1185603486Sam Altman2023-11-17T20:59:26Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Use American English|date=January 2023}}<br />
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2023}}<br />
{{short description|former CEO of OpenAI, former president of Y Combinator}}<br />
{{Infobox person<br />
| name = Sam Altman<br />
| image = File:Sam Altman CropEdit James Tamim.jpg<br />
| caption = Altman in 2019<br />
| birth_name = Samuel Harris Altman<br />
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1985|04|22}}<br />
| birth_place = [[Chicago, Illinois]], U.S.<br />
| education = [[Stanford University]] (dropped out)<br />
| occupation = Entrepreneur<br />
| known_for = [[Loopt]], [[Y Combinator]], [[OpenAI]]<br />
| title = Former CEO OpenAI<br />
| spouse = <br />
| children = <br />
| website = {{Official website}}<br />
| signature = <br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Samuel Harris Altman''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|ɔː|l|t|m|ə|n}} {{respell|AWLT|mən}}; born April 22, 1985) is an American [[entrepreneur]] and [[investor]]. He has held key roles, including being the former CEO of [[OpenAI]] and president of [[Y Combinator]]. Along with OpenAI, Altman also co-founded [[Loopt]] and was briefly the CEO of [[Reddit]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=De Vynck |first=Gerrit |date=April 9, 2023 |title=The man who unleashed AI on an unsuspecting Silicon Valley |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2023/04/09/sam-altman-openai-chatgpt/ |access-date=April 13, 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Early life and education == <br />
Altman is [[Jews|Jewish]],<ref name=newyorker2016>{{cite magazine |last=Friend |first=Tad |date=October 3, 2016 |title=Sam Altman's Manifest Destiny |url=https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/10/10/sam-altmans-manifest-destiny |url-status=live |magazine=[[The New Yorker]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517010534/http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/10/10/sam-altmans-manifest-destiny |archive-date=May 17, 2017 |access-date=May 17, 2017}}</ref> and grew up in [[St. Louis, Missouri]]. His mother is a dermatologist. He received his first computer at the age of eight, an [[Apple Macintosh]].<ref name="esquire.com">{{cite web |first=Tom |last=Junod |title=How Venture Capitalists Find Opportunities in the Future |url=https://www.esquire.com/news-politics/interviews/a30763/sam-altman-interview-2014/ |work=[[Esquire (magazine)|Esquire]] |date=December 18, 2014 |accessdate=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220145855/http://www.esquire.com/news-politics/interviews/a30763/sam-altman-interview-2014/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Altman's "childhood idol" was [[Steve Jobs]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nolan |first=Beatrice |title=OpenAI CEO Sam Altman once said the only time he ever 'froze' was when he met his childhood idol Steve Jobs |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/sam-altman-froze-met-steve-jobs-openai-2023-11 |access-date=2023-11-03 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}</ref> He attended [[John Burroughs School]]. In 2005, after one year at [[Stanford University]] studying computer science, he dropped out without earning a bachelor's degree.<ref>{{cite web |title=People |url=http://ycombinator.com/people.html |work=[[Y Combinator (company)|Y Combinator]] |accessdate=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=June 25, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625021419/http://ycombinator.com/people.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Career == <br />
<br />
=== Loopt === <br />
In 2005, at the age of 19,<ref>{{cite web |last=Ankeny |first=Jason |date=April 25, 2015 |title=Meet Y Combinator's Bold Whiz Kid Boss |url=http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/244508 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222150644/http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/244508 |archive-date=December 22, 2015 |accessdate=December 15, 2015 |website=[[Entrepreneur (magazine)|Entrepreneur]]}}</ref> Altman co-founded [[Loopt]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.loopt.com/about/company/executives |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216022416/http://www.loopt.com/about/company/executives/ |archive-date=February 16, 2012 |title=Executives |accessdate=December 15, 2015 |work=[[Loopt]]}}</ref> a location-based [[social networking service|social networking]] mobile application. As [[Chief Executive Officer|CEO]], Altman raised more than $30{{nbsp}}million in venture capital for the company; however, Loopt failed to gain traction with enough users. In March 2012, it was acquired by the [[Green Dot Corporation]] for $43.4{{nbsp}}million.<ref>{{cite news |last=Vascellaro |first=Jessica E. |date=March 9, 2012 |title=Startup Loopt Lands with Green Dot |work=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |url=https://blogs.wsj.com/digits/2012/03/09/startup-loopt-lands-with-green-dot/ |url-status=live |accessdate=March 13, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120313052152/http://blogs.wsj.com/digits/2012/03/09/startup-loopt-lands-with-green-dot/ |archive-date=March 13, 2012}}</ref> The following month, Altman co-founded Hydrazine Capital with his brother, Jack Altman.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hydrazine Capital GP, LLC |date=2023-02-14 |title=Form ADV - Uniform Application for Investment Adviser Registration and Report by Exempt Reporting Advisers. |url=https://reports.adviserinfo.sec.gov/reports/ADV/165781/PDF/165781.pdf |access-date=2023-07-27 |website=[[Securities and Exchange Commission]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Hydrazine Capital LP - Company Profile and News |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/profile/company/1003986D:US |url-status=live |archive-url=http://archive.today/2023.07.27-204255/https://www.bloomberg.com/profile/company/1003986D:US |archive-date=2023-07-27 |access-date=2023-07-27 |website=[[Bloomberg L.P.]] |language=en}}</ref> Altman got [[scurvy]] during his work on Loopt.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mok |first=Aaron |title=OpenAI CEO Sam Altman says he worked so hard on building his first startup with his ex-boyfriend that he got scurvy |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-ceo-sam-altman-got-scurvy-working-start-up-chatgpt-2023-9 |access-date=2023-10-05 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Y Combinator === <br />
Altman became a partner at [[Y&nbsp;Combinator]] in 2011, initially working there on a part-time basis.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Clark |first=Kate |date=2019-03-08 |title=Y Combinator president Sam Altman is stepping down amid a series of changes at the accelerator |url=http://social.techcrunch.com/2019/03/08/y-combinator-president-sam-altman-is-stepping-down-amid-a-series-of-changes-at-the-accelerator/ |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028032045/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/08/y-combinator-president-sam-altman-is-stepping-down-amid-a-series-of-changes-at-the-accelerator/ |archive-date=2020-10-28 |access-date=2019-03-18 |website=[[TechCrunch]] |language=en-US}}</ref> In February 2014, Altman was named president of Y{{nbsp}}Combinator by its co-founder, [[Paul Graham (computer programmer)|Paul Graham]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Loizos |first=Connie |date=November 6, 2015 |title=Garry Tan Says Goodbye to Y Combinator |url=http://social.techcrunch.com/2015/11/06/garry-tan-says-goodbye-to-y-combinator/ |access-date=March 18, 2019 |website=[[TechCrunch]] |language=en-US}}</ref> In a 2014 blog post, Altman said that the total valuation of Y{{nbsp}}Combinator companies had surpassed $65{{nbsp}}billion, including [[Airbnb]], [[Dropbox (service)|Dropbox]], [[Zenefits]], and [[Stripe (company)|Stripe]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Altman |first=Sam |date=August 26, 2015 |title=YC Stats |publisher=[[Y Combinator]] |url=https://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-stats |url-status=live |accessdate=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218203854/http://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-stats |archive-date=December 18, 2015}}</ref> In September 2016, Altman announced his expanded role as president of YC{{nbsp}}Group, which included Y{{nbsp}}Combinator and other units.<ref>{{cite web |last=Altman |first=Sam |date=September 13, 2016 |title=YC Changes |url=https://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-changes |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107155921/https://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-changes |archive-date=November 7, 2016 |accessdate=November 7, 2016 |work=[[Y Combinator]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
Altman said that he hoped to expand [[Y Combinator|Y{{nbsp}}Combinator]] to fund 1,000 new companies per year. He also tried to expand the types of companies funded by YC, especially "hard technology" companies.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chafkin |first=Max |date=April 16, 2015 |title=Y Combinator President Sam Altman is Dreaming Big |website=[[Fast Company]] |url=http://www.fastcompany.com/3044282/the-y-combinator-chronicles/california-dreamin |url-status=live |accessdate=July 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722024957/http://www.fastcompany.com/3044282/the-y-combinator-chronicles/california-dreamin |archive-date=July 22, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
In October 2015, Altman announced YC{{nbsp}}Continuity, a $700{{nbsp}}million [[equity fund]] investing in YC{{nbsp}}companies as they matured.<ref><br />
*{{cite news |url=http://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-continuity-fund |accessdate=December 19, 2015 |title=YC Continuity |publisher=Y Combinator |date=October 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218203823/http://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-continuity-fund |url-status=live}}<br />
*{{cite news |url=https://venturebeat.com/2015/10/15/y-combinator-raises-700m-to-keep-funding-yc-startups-as-they-mature/ |accessdate=December 19, 2015 |title=YC Continuity |website=VentureBeat |date=October 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222185526/http://venturebeat.com/2015/10/15/y-combinator-raises-700m-to-keep-funding-yc-startups-as-they-mature/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A week earlier, Altman had introduced Y{{nbsp}}Combinator Research, a non-profit research lab, and donated $10{{nbsp}}million to fund it.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-research |access-date=February 19, 2016 |title=YC Research | publisher=Y Combinator |date=October 7, 2015 |archive-date=February 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160215225536/https://blog.ycombinator.com/yc-research |url-status=live}}</ref> YC Research has thus far announced research on basic income, the future of computing, education, and building new cities.<ref>{{cite web |title=Y Combinator Research |url=https://ycr.org/|website=YC Research |access-date=August 3, 2016 |archive-date=June 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611042811/https://ycr.org/|url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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In March 2019, YC{{nbsp}}announced Altman's transition from the president of the company to a less hands-on role as Chairman of the Board, for him to focus on [[OpenAI]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Loizos |first=Connie |date=March 9, 2019 |title=Did Sam Altman make YC better or worse? |url=http://social.techcrunch.com/2019/03/09/did-sam-altman-make-yc-better-or-worse/ |access-date=February 3, 2020 |website=[[TechCrunch]] |language=en-US}}</ref> This decision came shortly after YC announced it would be moving its headquarters to San Francisco.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clark |first=Kate |date=March 8, 2019 |title=Y Combinator president Sam Altman is stepping down amid a series of changes at the accelerator |url=http://social.techcrunch.com/2019/03/08/y-combinator-president-sam-altman-is-stepping-down-amid-a-series-of-changes-at-the-accelerator/ |access-date=February 3, 2020 |website=[[TechCrunch]] |language=en-US}}</ref> As of early 2020, he is no longer affiliated with YC.<br />
<br />
=== OpenAI === <br />
By 2020, Sam Altman had left Y Combinator to focus full-time on [[OpenAI]] as CEO.<ref name=":1" /> [[OpenAI]] was initially funded by Altman, [[Greg Brockman]], [[Elon Musk]], [[Jessica Livingston]], [[Peter Thiel]], [[Microsoft]], [[Amazon Web Services]], [[Infosys]], and YC{{nbsp}}Research. When OpenAI launched in 2015, it had raised $1{{nbsp}}billion.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Olanoff |first=Drew |date=December 11, 2015 |title=Artificial Intelligence Nonprofit OpenAI Launches With Backing From Elon Musk And Sam Altman |url=https://techcrunch.com/2015/12/11/non-profit-openai-launches-with-backing-from-elon-musk-and-sam-altman/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221020165718/https://techcrunch.com/2015/12/11/non-profit-openai-launches-with-backing-from-elon-musk-and-sam-altman/ |archive-date=October 20, 2022 |access-date=October 20, 2022 |website=[[TechCrunch]] |language=en-US}}</ref><br />
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Altman testified before the United States Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law on 16 May 2023 about issues of AI oversight.<ref>{{cite news |title=WATCH: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testifies before Senate Judiciary Committee |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-live-openai-ceo-sam-altman-testifies-before-senate-judiciary-committee |access-date=19 June 2023 |work=PBS NewsHour |date=15 May 2023 |language=en-us}}</ref><br />
<br />
On November 17, 2023, it was announced that OpenAI's board had made the decision to remove Altman as CEO based on a lack of confidence.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Jay |date=2023-11-17 |title=Sam Altman fired as CEO of OpenAI |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/17/23965982/openai-ceo-sam-altman-fired |access-date=2023-11-17 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://openai.com/blog/openai-announces-leadership-transition|title=OpenAI announces leadership transition|website=openai.com}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Reddit ===<br />
Altman was the CEO of [[Reddit]] for eight days in 2014 after CEO [[Yishan Wong]] resigned.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://blog.samaltman.com/a-new-team-at-reddit |accessdate=February 13, 2015 |title=A New Team At Reddit |publisher=Sam Altman |date=November 13, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150213043217/http://blog.samaltman.com/a-new-team-at-reddit |url-status=live}}</ref> He announced the return of [[Steve Huffman]] as CEO on July 10, 2015.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.reddit.com/comments/3cucye/ |title=An Old Team At Reddit |access-date=July 13, 2015 |publisher=[[reddit]] |archive-date=December 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151226130417/https://www.reddit.com/comments/3cucye/ |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Worldcoin ===<br />
Altman co-founded Tools For Humanity in 2019,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Currie |first=Richard |date=2023-05-16 |title=Sam Altman rattles tin for Worldcoin crypto startup |url=https://www.theregister.com/2023/05/16/worldcoin_fundraising/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621083448/https://www.theregister.com/2023/05/16/worldcoin_fundraising/ |archive-date=2023-06-21 |access-date=2023-07-25 |website=The Register}}</ref> a company building a global iris-based biometric system using [[cryptocurrency]], called [[Worldcoin]]. Worldcoin aims to provide a reliable way to authenticate humans online,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pandolfo |first=Chris |date=May 16, 2023 |title=OpenAI CEO Sam Altman raises $100M for Worldcoin crypto project, which uses 'Orb' to scan your eye: report |url=https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/openai-ceo-sam-altman-raises-100m-worldcoin-crypto-project-uses-orb-scan-eye |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230724180614/https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/openai-ceo-sam-altman-raises-100m-worldcoin-crypto-project-uses-orb-scan-eye |archive-date=2023-07-24 |access-date=2023-07-25 |website=[[FOXBusiness]]}}</ref> to counter bots and fake virtual identities facilitated by [[artificial intelligence]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hart |first=Robert |title=What Is Worldcoin? Here's What To Know About The Eyeball-Scanning Crypto Project Launched By OpenAI's Sam Altman |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthart/2023/07/24/what-is-worldcoin-heres-what-to-know-about-the-eyeball-scanning-crypto-project-launched-by-openais-sam-altman/ |access-date=2023-07-26 |website=Forbes |language=en}}</ref> Using a distribution mechanism for its cryptocurrency similar to [[universal basic income|UBI]], Worldcoin attempts to incentivize users<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-10-21 |title=How the Launch Works |url=https://worldcoin.org/blog/worldcoin/how-the-launch-works |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230525211110/https://worldcoin.org/blog/worldcoin/how-the-launch-works |archive-date=2023-05-25 |access-date=2023-07-25 |website=Worldcoin}}</ref> to join its network by getting their iris scanned using Worldcoin's orb-shaped iris scanner.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-27 |title=Opening the Orb: A look inside Worldcoin's biometric imaging device |url=https://worldcoin.org/blog/engineering/opening-orb-look-inside-worldcoin-biometric-imaging-device |url-status=live |archive-url=http://archive.today/2023.02.13-003550/https://worldcoin.org/blog/engineering/opening-orb-look-inside-worldcoin-biometric-imaging-device |archive-date=2023-02-13 |access-date=2023-07-25 |website=Worldcoin}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Angel investing == <br />
Altman invests in technology startups and nuclear energy companies. Some of his portfolio companies include [[Airbnb]], [[Stripe (company)|Stripe]] and [[Joe Betts-LaCroix#Biotechnology_&_biomedicine|Retro Biosciences]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Regalado |first=Antonio |date=8 March 2023 |title=Sam Altman invested $180 million into a company trying to delay death |url=https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/03/08/1069523/sam-altman-investment-180-million-retro-biosciences-longevity-death/ |website=[[MIT Technology Review]] |language=en |access-date=March 19, 2023 |archive-date=March 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230319163241/https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/03/08/1069523/sam-altman-investment-180-million-retro-biosciences-longevity-death/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He is also chairman of the board for [[Helion Energy|Helion]] and Oklo, two nuclear energy companies.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Hiller |first1=Jennifer |title=Tech Billionaires Bet on Fusion as Holy Grail for Business |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/tech-billionaires-bet-on-fusion-as-holy-grail-for-business-9a48a2ac |website=Wall Street Journal |publisher=Dow Jones |access-date=29 April 2023 |date=23 April 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Philanthropy ==<br />
During the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], Altman helped fund and create Project Covalence to help researchers rapidly launch clinical trials in partnership with TrialSpark, a clinical trial startup.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Herper |first=Matthew |date=June 16, 2020 |title=Teaming tech and pharma, effort seeks to speed Covid-19 clinical trials |url=https://www.statnews.com/2020/06/16/tech-investor-covid-trials/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201018203629/https://www.statnews.com/2020/06/16/tech-investor-covid-trials/ |archive-date=October 18, 2020 |access-date=October 17, 2020 |website=[[Stat (website)|Stat]] |language=en-US}}</ref> <br />
<br />
During the depositor run on [[Silicon Valley Bank]] in mid-March 2023, Altman provided capital to multiple [[Startup company|startups]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Krystal |first1=Hu |last2=Tong |first2=Anna |last3=Jeffrey |first3=Dastin |date=March 12, 2023 |title=Tech execs race to save startups from 'extinction' after SVB collapse |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/tech-execs-race-save-startups-extinction-after-svb-collapse-2023-03-12/ |access-date=March 12, 2023 |website=[[Reuters]] |archive-date=March 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230312063721/https://www.reuters.com/business/tech-execs-race-save-startups-extinction-after-svb-collapse-2023-03-12/ |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Politics ==<br />
''[[Recode]]'' reported that Altman might run for [[Governor of California]] in the [[2018 California gubernatorial election|2018 election]], which he did not enter. In 2018, Altman announced "The United Slate", a political project to improve housing and healthcare policy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Romm |first=Tony |date=July 31, 2017 |title=Sam Altman will spend big on a new political movement to fix U.S. housing, health care and more |url=https://www.vox.com/2017/7/31/16066640/sam-altman-united-slate-health-care-housing-california-2018-midterm-elections-trump |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230119221420/https://www.vox.com/2017/7/31/16066640/sam-altman-united-slate-health-care-housing-california-2018-midterm-elections-trump |archive-date=January 19, 2023 |access-date=January 19, 2023 |website=[[Vox (website)|Vox]] |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2019, Altman held a fundraiser at his house in San Francisco for 2020 Democratic presidential candidate [[Andrew Yang]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Russell |first=Melia |date=November 14, 2019 |title=Andrew Yang preached his tech-friendly gospel at Sam Altman's San Francisco house: You can't treat tech like oil companies and breaking up Amazon won't bring malls back |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/andrew-yang-talks-tech-san-francisco-sam-altman-fundraiser-2019-11 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702061954/https://www.businessinsider.com/andrew-yang-talks-tech-san-francisco-sam-altman-fundraiser-2019-11 |archive-date=July 2, 2020 |access-date=June 30, 2020 |website=[[Business Insider]]}}</ref> In May 2020, Altman donated $250,000 to [[American Bridge 21st Century]], a [[Political action committee|super-PAC]] supporting Democratic presidential candidate [[Joe Biden]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tindera |first=Michela |title=Silicon Valley's Sam Altman Gave $250,000 To Democratic Super-PAC Supporting Biden |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/michelatindera/2020/05/22/silicon-valleys-sam-altman-gave-250000-to-democratic-super-pac-supporting-biden/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703062136/https://www.forbes.com/sites/michelatindera/2020/05/22/silicon-valleys-sam-altman-gave-250000-to-democratic-super-pac-supporting-biden/ |archive-date=July 3, 2020 |access-date=June 30, 2020 |website=[[Forbes]] |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
After the success of ChatGPT, Altman made a world tour in May 2023 where he visited 22 countries and met multiple leaders and diplomats:<ref name=Intelligencer>{{Cite web|url=https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/sam-altman-artificial-intelligence-openai-profile.html|title=Sam Altman Is the Oppenheimer of Our Age|first=Elizabeth|last=Weil|date=September 25, 2023|website=Intelligencer}}</ref><br />
<blockquote>He met with British prime minister [[Rishi Sunak]], French president [[Emmanuel Macron]], Spanish prime minister [[Pedro Sánchez]], German chancellor [[Olaf Scholz]], Indian prime minister [[Narendra Modi]], South Korean president [[Yoon Suk-yeol]], and Israeli president [[Isaac Herzog]]. He stood for a photo with European Commission president [[Ursula von der Leyen]].</blockquote><br />
<br />
== Personal life ==<br />
Altman has been a [[Vegetarianism|vegetarian]] since childhood.<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 24, 2020 |title=Fireside Chat with Sam Altman |url=https://rescale.com/blog/fireside-chat-with-sam-altman/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220803224649/https://rescale.com/blog/fireside-chat-with-sam-altman/ |archive-date=August 3, 2022 |access-date=August 3, 2022 |website=[[Rescale]]}}</ref> He is gay<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIDDm3fKyT0 |title=Tech Pride: Sam Altman |date=February 8, 2019 |language=en |access-date=2023-01-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203191432/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIDDm3fKyT0 |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> and dated Loopt co-founder Nick Sivo for nine years;<ref>{{Cite web |title=Altman and his now ex-boyfriend, Sivo, built a start-up called Loopt, geolocation software for friends. |url=https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/open-ai-ceo-sam-altman-and-his-boyfriend-oliver-mulherin-want-to-have-kids-soon/articleshow/103959808.cms |access-date=2023-10-26 |website=Business Insider}}</ref> they broke up shortly after the company was acquired in 2012.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Friend |first1=Tad |author-link=Tad Friend |date=October 3, 2016 |title=Sam Altman's Manifest Destiny |url=https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/10/10/sam-altmans-manifest-destiny |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517010534/http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/10/10/sam-altmans-manifest-destiny |archive-date=May 17, 2017 |access-date=February 18, 2020 |magazine=[[The New Yorker]]}}</ref> As of 2023, his partner is Oliver Mulherin, an Australian software engineer. Altman lives in San Francisco's [[Russian Hill]] neighborhood and owns a weekend home in [[Napa, California]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Metz|first=Cade|date=March 31, 2023|url= https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/31/technology/sam-altman-open-ai-chatgpt.html|title=The ChatGPT King Isn't Worried, but He Knows You Might Be|work=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref><br />
<br />
Altman is a [[prepper]].<ref name=newyorker2016/><ref>{{cite web |last1=Russell |first1=Melia |last2=Black |first2=Julia |title=Inside OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's fixation on death and the apocalypse |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/sam-altman-pandemic-apocalypse-immortality-life-extension-openai-2023-4 |website=Business Insider |access-date=23 May 2023}}</ref> He said in 2016: "I have guns, gold, potassium iodide, antibiotics, batteries, water, gas masks from the Israeli Defense Force, and a big patch of land in Big Sur I can fly to."<ref name=newyorker2016/><br />
<br />
== Recognition ==<br />
[[File:Nancy Pelosi GLAAD 2017 2 (cropped).jpg|thumb|[[Nancy Pelosi]] presenting Sam Altman with the Ric Weiland Award in 2017]]<br />
Altman was named one of the [[Time 100|100 most influential people in the world]] by ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' magazine in 2023,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://time.com/collection/100-most-influential-people-2023/ |title=Time 100 |magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]] |date=April 13, 2023 |access-date=April 15, 2023 }}</ref> one of the "Best Young Entrepreneurs in Technology" by ''[[Businessweek]]'' in 2008,<ref>{{cite news |date=April 18, 2008 |title=Tech's Best Young Entrepreneurs |work=[[Businessweek]] |url=http://images.businessweek.com/ss/07/03/0326_tech_entrepreneurs/source/9.htm |url-status=dead |access-date=April 19, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090428015115/http://images.businessweek.com/ss/07/03/0326_tech_entrepreneurs/source/9.htm |archive-date=April 28, 2009}}</ref> and the top investor under 30 by ''[[Forbes]]'' magazine in 2015.<ref>{{cite news |date=January 5, 2015 |title=Forbes' 30 Under 30 2015: Venture Capital |work=[[Forbes]] |editor-last=Wilson |editor-first=Alexandra |url=https://www.forbes.com/consent/?toURL=https://www.forbes.com/30-under-30/2022 |url-status=live |access-date=February 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220065135/http://www.forbes.com/30under30/#/venture-capital |archive-date=February 20, 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
In 2017, Altman received an [[Honorary degree|honorary]] [[Doctor of Engineering]] degree from the [[University of Waterloo]] for supporting companies through its Velocity entrepreneurship program.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 June 2017 |title=University of Waterloo to honour Silicon Valley leader Sam Altman |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/university-waterloo-honorary-doctorate-sam-altman-1.4143240 |access-date=22 March 2023 |website=[[CBC News]] |archive-date=March 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316232310/https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/university-waterloo-honorary-doctorate-sam-altman-1.4143240 |url-status=live }}</ref> Later that year, [[GLAAD]] recognized Altman with the [[Ric Weiland]] Award for promoting LGBTQ equality and acceptance in the tech sector.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-09-11 |title=House Dem. Leader Nancy Pelosi presents award to Sam Altman at 2017 GLAAD Gala SF |url=https://www.glaad.org/blog/house-dem-leader-nancy-pelosi-presents-award-sam-altman-2017-glaad-gala-sf |access-date=2023-03-22 |website=[[GLAAD]] |language=en |archive-date=March 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322200601/https://www.glaad.org/blog/house-dem-leader-nancy-pelosi-presents-award-sam-altman-2017-glaad-gala-sf |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
Altman was invited to attend the [[Bilderberg Group|Bilderberg conference]] in 2016,<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://time.com/4362872/bilderberg-group-meetings-2016-conspiracy-theories/|title=The World's Most Powerful and Secret Group, Explained|date=June 9, 2016|magazine=Time}}</ref> [[2022 Bilderberg Conference|2022]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bilderbergmeetings.org/meetings/meeting-2022/participants-2022|title=Participants 2022|website=www.bilderbergmeetings.org}}</ref> and [[2023 Bilderberg Conference|2023]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/05/18/bilderberg-openai-microsoft-google-join-ai-talks-at-secretive-meeting.html|title=A secretive annual meeting attended by the world's elite has A.I. top of the agenda|first=Karen|last=Gilchrist|date=May 18, 2023|website=CNBC}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/may/20/bilderberg-meeting-group-lisbon-kissinger|title=At Bilderberg's bigwig bash two things are guaranteed: Kissinger and secrecy|first=Charlie|last=Skelton|date=May 20, 2023|newspaper=The Guardian}}</ref><br />
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Altman was in 2023 the first person to obtain a golden visa to [[Indonesia]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-09-06 |title=OpenAI CEO Receives Indonesia's First Golden Visa |url=https://www.finews.com/news/english-news/59151-sam-altman-openai-ceo-first-indonesia-golden-visa-asia |website=Finews}}</ref><br />
{{-}}<br />
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==References==<br />
<references /><br />
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==External links==<br />
{{Wikiquote}}<br />
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* {{official website}}<br />
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[[Category:John Burroughs School alumni]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11855828542023 Kerala bombing2023-11-17T18:09:56Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
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<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 6<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
Six people have died as a result of the explosion. Three of the victims were of one family.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/death-toll-in-kalamassery-blasts-rises-to-six/article67541891.ece}}</ref><br />
<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Liban, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libna's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref> The sixth victim was Praveen Pradeepan, older brother of Libna and son of Reena, both of whom had died as a result of their injuries following the blast.<br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11855825042023 Kerala bombing2023-11-17T18:06:32Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 6<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
Six people have died as a result of the explosion. Three of the victims were of one family.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/death-toll-in-kalamassery-blasts-rises-to-six/article67541891.ece}}</ref><br />
<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libina's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11855822832023 Kerala bombing2023-11-17T18:04:46Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Added links</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 6<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
Six people have died as a result of the explosion. <ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/death-toll-in-kalamassery-blasts-rises-to-six/article67541891.ece}}</ref><br />
<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libina's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11855820022023 Kerala bombing2023-11-17T18:02:44Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 6<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libina's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11851538552023 Kerala bombing2023-11-14T22:27:28Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 5<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libina's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11851537672023 Kerala bombing2023-11-14T22:26:48Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed grammar</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 5<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /><br />
A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libina's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11851533762023 Kerala bombing2023-11-14T22:23:55Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 5<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /> A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Reena "Sally" Pradeepan, who is also Libina's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11851130052023 Kerala bombing2023-11-14T17:24:39Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = {{Start date|2023|10|29}}<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 5<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last1=Mollan |first1=Cherylann |last2=Padanna |first2=Ashraf |date=30 October 2023 |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |archive-date=30 October 2023}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0" /> A week later 61-year-old Molly Joy and 45-year-old Sally Pradeepan, who is also Libina's mother, died while in intensive care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=മരിച്ച ലിബ്നയുടെ അമ്മ സാലിയും മരണത്തിനു കീഴടങ്ങി; കളമശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം അഞ്ചായി |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/news/latest-news/2023/11/11/another-victim-of-kalamassery-bomb-blast-succumbed-to-death.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=IANS |date=2023-11-06 |title=Kerala Blasts: Fourth Jehovah’s Witness injured in the blast, dies |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /> Police also recovered four [[Remote control|remote control devices]] from the storage space of Martin's scooter which he parked at the Kodakara police station before surrender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ തിരക്കൊഴിയാൻ ഡൊമിനിക് കാത്തുനിന്നത് അരമണിക്കൂർ; റിമോട്ട് കൺട്രോളുകളും കണ്ടെടുത്തു |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/thrissur/2023/11/12/kalamassery-bomb-blast-case-investigation.html |access-date=2023-11-13 |website=www.manoramaonline.com |language=ml}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-12 |title=Kalamassery blasts: Libna’s mom dies, toll rises to five |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kalamassery-blasts-libnas-mom-dies-toll-rises-to-five/articleshow/105160431.cms |access-date=2023-11-13 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> <br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11848011492023 Kerala bombing2023-11-12T18:38:31Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 5<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries (her mother Reena would become the fifth victim some days later).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref>The fourth victim (chronologically) was Molly Joy, who died of her burns on Nov 6.<ref>https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11847227432023 Kerala bombing2023-11-12T06:06:50Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 5<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Four women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries (her mother would become the fifth victim some days later).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref>The fourth victim (chronologically) was Molly Joy, who died of her burns on Nov 6.<ref>https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies</ref> More than 50 others suffered burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11838612072023 Kerala bombing2023-11-06T23:19:58Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<!-- Please do not remove or change this AfD message until the discussion has been closed. --><br />
{{Article for deletion/dated|page=2023 Kerala bombing|timestamp=20231031151949|year=2023|month=October|day=31|substed=yes|help=off}}<br />
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<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 4<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Three women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref>A fourth person, Molly Joy, died of her burns on Nov 6.<ref>https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies</ref> More than 50 others got burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11838610432023 Kerala bombing2023-11-06T23:18:42Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Added links</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<!-- Please do not remove or change this AfD message until the discussion has been closed. --><br />
{{Article for deletion/dated|page=2023 Kerala bombing|timestamp=20231031151949|year=2023|month=October|day=31|substed=yes|help=off}}<br />
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<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 3<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Three women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref>A fourth person, Molly Joy, died of her burns on Nov 6.<ref>https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kerala-blasts-fourth-jehovahs-witness-injured-in-the-blast-dies</ref> More than 50 others got burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11838254262023 Kerala bombing2023-11-06T19:01:53Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed typo</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<!-- Please do not remove or change this AfD message until the discussion has been closed. --><br />
{{Article for deletion/dated|page=2023 Kerala bombing|timestamp=20231031151949|year=2023|month=October|day=31|substed=yes|help=off}}<br />
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<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| target = Jehovah's Witnesses Convention<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 3<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| motive = [[Indian nationalism|Indian]] [[Ultranationalism|ultra-nationalism]]<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a convention of [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] in [[Kalamassery]], a suburb of [[Kochi]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Three women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the group was holding a Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man shortly surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, claiming to be responsible for the blast. The motive of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Christianity in Kerala|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
[[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. The Witnesses have been actively preaching and practicing in Kerala since its inception.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=24 Web |date=2023-10-29 |title=ആരാണ് യഹോവ സാക്ഷികൾ? |url=https://www.twentyfournews.com/2023/10/29/who-is-jehovah-witness.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Twentyfournews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Its founder [[Charles Taze Russell]] visited [[Thiruvananthapuram]] in 1912.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russelpuram and its tryst with Biblical studies |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2022/nov/22/russelpuram-and-its-tryst-with-biblical-studies-2520672.html |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> <br />
<br />
=== ''Emmanuel v. State of Kerala'' ===<br />
In 1985, three students of NSS High School at [[Kidangoor, Kottayam|Kidangoor]] in Kottayam district of Kerala were expelled from the school for not singing the [[Jana Gana Mana|national anthem of India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emmanuel v. State of Kerala |url=https://globalfreedomofexpression.columbia.edu/cases/emmanuel-v-state-of-kerala/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Global Freedom of Expression |language=en}}</ref> The children belonged to a Jehovah's Witnesses family. Their father, V. J. Emmanuel, approached the [[Kerala High Court]] against the school's decision arguing that their religion prohibits singing in praise of anything other than their god. The local court, however, ruled in favour of the school's decision.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BIJOE EMMANUEL Vs. STATE OF KERALA |url=https://www.the-laws.com/Encyclopedia/browse/Case?CaseId=115891104000&Title=BIJOE-EMMANUEL-Vs.-STATE-OF-KERALA |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=www.the-laws.com}}</ref> Subsequently, Emmanuel filed a [[Special Leave Petitions in India|special leave petition]] in the [[Supreme Court of India]]. The Supreme Court overturned the High Court's decision and backed the appellant,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-12-04 |title=After historic SC anthem win, Kerala siblings went to school for a day |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/jehovahs-witnesses-sect-after-historic-sc-national-anthem-win-kerala-siblings-emmanuel-went-to-school-for-a-day-4409478/ |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-12-04 |title=What the law says and what the courts ruled |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/standing-for-the-national-anthem-what-the-law-says-and-what-the-courts-ruled/article7949583.ece |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=''BIJOE EMMANUEL & ORS. v. STATE OF KERALA & ORS.'' |url=https://main.sci.gov.in/judgment/judis/8973.pdf}}</ref> Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, the final day of a three-day programme,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2023-Convention-Program/|title=2023 Convention Program—"Exercise Patience"!|website=JW.org|publisher=[[Jehovah's Witnesses]]|access-date=5 November 2023}}</ref> about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses had gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the centre in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others got burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57-year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=on}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb were purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidence that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
<br />
{{coord missing|Kerala}}<br />
{{Portal bar|Christianity|Crime|India}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|2023 bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Crime in Kerala]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11833418652023 Kerala bombing2023-11-03T18:21:42Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed typo</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<!-- Please do not remove or change this AfD message until the discussion has been closed. --><br />
{{Article for deletion/dated|page=2023 Kerala bombing|timestamp=20231031151949|year=2023|month=October|day=31|substed=yes|help=off}}<br />
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<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 3<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] convention in [[Kalamassery]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Two women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the [[Christianity in India|Christian group]] was holding the Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man named Dominic Martin has surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, confessing to being responsible for the blast. The cause of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
The [[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. In 1986, the Indian Supreme Court backed its followers, ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools. Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the center in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libina, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others got burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57 year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=out}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb was purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidences that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
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{{coord missing|Kerala}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|Bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11833392292023 Kerala bombing2023-11-03T18:03:02Z<p>Brandon.macuser: </p>
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<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<!-- Please do not remove or change this AfD message until the discussion has been closed. --><br />
{{Article for deletion/dated|page=2023 Kerala bombing|timestamp=20231031151949|year=2023|month=October|day=31|substed=yes|help=off}}<br />
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<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 3<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] convention in [[Kalamassery]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Two women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the [[Christianity in India|Christian group]] was holding the Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man named Dominic Martin has surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, confessing to being responsible for the blast. The cause of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
The [[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. In 1986, the Indian Supreme Court backed its followers, ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools. Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the center in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, 12-year-old Libna, whose burns were 95%, succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others got burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57 year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=out}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb was purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidences that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
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{{coord missing|Kerala}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|Bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuserhttps://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=2023_Kerala_bombing&diff=11831978062023 Kerala bombing2023-11-02T19:56:51Z<p>Brandon.macuser: Fixed grammar</p>
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<div>{{Short description|IED attack in India}}<!-- Please do not remove or change this AfD message until the discussion has been closed. --><br />
{{Article for deletion/dated|page=2023 Kerala bombing|timestamp=20231031151949|year=2023|month=October|day=31|substed=yes|help=off}}<br />
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<noinclude>{{User:RMCD bot/subject notice|1=Kalamassery convention centre bombing|2=Talk:2023 Kerala bombing#Requested move 29 October 2023}}<br />
</noinclude>{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}<br />
{{Infobox civilian attack<br />
| title = Kalamassery convention centre blast<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| map = {{Location map|Kerala#India<br />
| lat_deg = 10.0589268<br />
| lon_deg = 76.3592979}}<br />
| location = Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], India<br />
| coordinates = {{Coord|10|03|32|N|76|21|34|E|display=inline,title}}<br />
| date = 29 October 2023<br />
| time = 9:40 AM<br />
| timezone = GMT +5:30<br />
| type = [[Bomb|Bombing]]<br />
| fatalities = 3<br />
| injuries = 50+<br />
| weapons = [[Improvised explosive device]]<br />
}}<br />
On 29 October 2023, a series of [[improvised explosive device]] (IED) blasts took place during a [[Jehovah's Witnesses]] convention in [[Kalamassery]], India.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed three in Kerala |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |work=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=29 October 2023 |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Kochi resident claims responsibility, surrenders before Kerala Police |url=https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |work=Orissa Post |location=Kochi |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030081635/https://www.orissapost.com/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-kochi-resident-claims-responsibility-surrenders-before-kerala-police/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Two women and a child were killed and more than fifty other people were injured when the [[Christianity in India|Christian group]] was holding the Sunday morning session of their annual regional convention in [[South India|southern India]]'s [[Kerala]] state.<ref name="Independent">{{cite news |title=Kerala on high alert as explosion hits southern India Christian prayer gathering |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |work=The Independent |first=Shweta |last=Sharma |date=29 October 2023 |language=en |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/india/kerala-prayer-explosion-alert-india-christian-b2437862.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hindu">{{cite news |title=Woman killed, several injured in explosion at a convention centre in Kerala's Kalamassery |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |language=en-IN |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029093322/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/people-killed-several-injured-in-explosion-at-a-convention-centre-in-kalamassery/article67472535.ece/amp/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A man named Dominic Martin has surrendered at the [[Kodakara]] police station, confessing to being responsible for the blast. The cause of the blast is still under investigation.<ref name="HT">{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live: '41 people hospitalised, special team probing incident,' says CM |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155004/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-blast-news-live-updates-kochi-death-injured-101698559152546.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Bomb Blast News {{!}} Kalamassery Convention Centre Blast Live: One killed, 36 injured in Kochi; IED device used for explosion, confirms state police chief |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030010207/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/live-updates-kerala-kochi-kalamassery-convention-centre-blasts-explosions-prayer-meet-jehovahs-witnesses/liveblog/104795079.cms |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Background ==<br />
{{Further|Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses}}<br />
The [[Jehovah's Witnesses]], a [[New religious movement|new religious]] [[Christian denomination]], claims to have approximately 8.5 million followers worldwide<ref name="report2022">{{cite web |url=https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals/ |title=2022 Grand Totals |publisher=Watch Tower Bible & Tract Society |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=5 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230805011101/https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/2022-Service-Year-Report-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-Worldwide/2022-Grand-Totals// |url-status=live}}</ref> and around 60,000 in India,<ref name="Reuters"/> with a significant presence in Kerala known for door-to-door [[evangelism]]. In 1986, the Indian Supreme Court backed its followers, ruling that their children could not be compelled to sing the national anthem in schools. Supporters of the movement argued that singing the anthem would constitute "a form of idolatry and an act of unfaithfulness to their God Jehovah" due to their conscience.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Incident==<br />
On the morning of 29 October 2023, about 2500 members of Jehovah's Witnesses gathered at the Zamra International Convention & Exhibition Centre, [[Kalamassery]], [[Kerala]], [[South India]]. The blasts occurred at 9:40 AM and fire was reported in the building<ref name="Independent" /> located 10 km northeast of [[Kochi]] city. Witnesses say that there were multiple explosions, and that the hall was filled with smoke and fire. People rushed out of the center in panic, and some were injured in the stampede.<ref name="HT" /> The first victim was found charred to death in the middle of the hall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalamassery blasts: Death toll climbs to 3 as 12-year-old girl succumbs to burns; police identify first victim |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105846/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blasts-girl-on-ventilator-support-dies-death-toll-climbs-three.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several are in critical condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kerala Blast Live Updates: 'This is a horrific tragedy', says Kerala Governor |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155439/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/kerala-blast-live-updates-explosion-convention-centre-kalamassery-one-person-died-20-injured-rescue-operation-underway-11698559375177.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |title=Kalamassery blasts: toll rises to three as 12-year-old girl succumbs to injuries |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2023 |access-date=30 October 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030035109/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blasts-death-toll-rises-12-year-old-girl-injuries/article67475340.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Victims ==<br />
The first reported fatality was Leona Paulos, a 55-year-old woman who was found charred to death at the blast spot.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=T. N. M. |date=2023-10-30 |title=12-year-old victim of Kalamassery blasts succumbs to burn injuries |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030130721/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/12-year-old-victim-of-kalamassery-blasts-succumbs-to-burn-injuries |url-status=live }}</ref> A few hours later, Kumari Pushpan, a resident of [[Thodupuzha]], died in the hospital.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനത്തിൽ മരണം രണ്ടായി; ഗുരുതരാവസ്ഥയിലായിരുന്ന സ്ത്രീ മരിച്ചു |url=https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=News18 Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031035806/https://malayalam.news18.com/news/kerala/kerala-blast-news-updates-kalamassery-blast-kills-two-the-woman-who-was-in-critical-condition-died-nj-634557.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the next day, a 12-year-old girl with 95% burns succumbed to her injuries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=കളമശ്ശേരി സ്ഫോടനം: മരണസംഖ്യ മൂന്നായി, ചികിത്സയിലായിരുന്ന 12-കാരിയും മരിച്ചു |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031093601/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-death-toll-rises-to-three-12-year-old-girl-who-was-undergoing-treatment-died-1.9028414 |url-status=live }}</ref> More than 50 others got burn injuries due to fire. 17 people had been admitted to different hospitals, 12 of whom were in intensive care with [[Total body surface area|burns above 50-60%]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Kerala attacks: India police investigate deadly blasts targeting Jehovah's Witnesses |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |first1=Cherylann |last1=Mollan |first2=Ashraf |last2=Padanna |date=30 October 2023 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |access-date=2023-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030102709/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-67259078 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
==Suspect==<br />
Dominic Martin, a 57 year-old resident of [[Thammanam]] who claims to be a renegade member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, surrendered at a police station in [[Kodakara]] and confessed that he is behind the blast. Prior to surrendering, he posted a video on Facebook where he was seen saying that he resented the Witnesses' "[[Anti-national (India)|anti-national]]" doctrines. Police were suspicious of Martin's claim, and took him to custody for further questioning.<ref name=martin>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-statelocal-media-2023-10-29/ |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |newspaper=Reuters |date=29 October 2023 |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0"/><br />
<br />
===Confession===<br />
As per the suspect's own confession, he planned the blast when he was working in Dubai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=NIA അന്വേഷണം ദുബായിലേക്ക്; മാർട്ടിന് തലേദിവസം രാത്രിവന്ന ഫോൺകോളിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അന്വേഷണം |trans-title=NIA probe into Dubai; Also investigating the phone call Martin received the night before |url=https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Newspaper |language=en |archive-date=1 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101135342/https://newspaper.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-blast-1.9032319 |url-status=live }}</ref> Martin told the police that he used {{Convert|8|L|U.S.gal|abbr=out}} of [[Gasoline|petrol]] and high-impact [[Firecracker|firecrackers]] to make the bomb.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=M. P. |date=2023-10-30 |title=Kalamassery blast {{!}} How the accused assembled the explosive device using gundu, petrol, remote and YouTube tutorial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |access-date=2023-11-01 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031062036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-blast-a-tale-of-50-gundu-8-litres-of-petrol-a-remote-and-a-youtube-tutorial/article67477536.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> Electronic components required for detonating the bomb was purchased from [[Ernakulam]] on the pretext of making remote control toys for children.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dominic Martin bought bomb components on pretext of making toys, assembled explosives in flat |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=OnManorama |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102004941/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/11/01/kalamassery-blasts-dominic-martin-bought-bomb-components-pretext-making-toys.html |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
<br />
== Investigation ==<br />
Initially, it was speculated that some [[Islamism|Islamist]] [[Terrorism in India|terrorist groups]] might be behind the blasts and the incident was falsely connected to the ongoing [[Israeli–Palestinian conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kalamassery explosion triggers hate speech, fake news; Police warn of strict action |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105025/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/kalamassery-hate-speeches-misinformations-flood-social-media-despite-police-warning-1.9026068 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Aishwarya |date=2023-10-29 |title=False Claims About Jews Being Targeted in Kerala Blasts Go Viral on Social Media |url=https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030105024/https://www.thequint.com/news/webqoof/narrative-of-kerala-blast-targeting-jews-viral-amid-israel-hamas-conflict |url-status=live}}</ref> However, further interrogation of Dominic Martin by police have revealed evidences that this was likely an [[Insider threat|insider attack]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-30 |title=Martin Dominic, Man Behind Kerala Blasts, Wanted to Teach Jehovah Witnesses a 'Lesson' {{!}} Intel Sources |url=https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |access-date=2023-10-30 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031173441/https://www.news18.com/india/martin-dominic-ernakulam-jehovah-witness-convention-centre-blast-intel-sources-exclusive-info-kerala-8639498.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Preliminary investigation indicated that an IED placed inside a [[Tiffin carrier|tiffin box]] might have caused the blasts.<ref name=":0" /><br />
<br />
==Response==<br />
According to the Kerala Director General of Police Shaik Darvesh Saheb, preliminary investigation indicated that an [[improvised explosive device]] was utilized.<ref name="Reuters"/> The [[Government of Kerala|Kerala government]] put the state on high alert after the blasts. Police and security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas, and checks are being carried out at all entry and exit points to the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=Kochi Convention Centre Blast Live Updates: Toll rises to two as woman undergoing treatment for burns succumbs |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029155438/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/kerala-blast-kalamassery-jehovas-witness-convension-live-updates-9004213/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Security Guard]], India's national counter-terrorism unit, moved one of its [[bomb disposal]] units from [[New Delhi]] to [[Kerala]] in order to conduct an investigation and collected evidence from the blast site.<ref name="Independent" /><br />
<br />
The [[National Investigation Agency]] (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the blasts. The NIA is India's premier counter-terrorism agency, and it is investigating the possibility that the blasts were carried out by a terrorist group.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Devasia |first1=Jose |last2=Ponnezhath |first2=Maria |last3=Thomas |first3=Chris |date=2023-10-29 |title=India police probe bomb blasts that killed two in Kerala |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029090859/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/one-killed-several-injured-explosions-indias-southern-state-local-media-2023-10-29/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |title=Man who claims to be from Jehovah's Witnesses surrenders, takes responsibility for Kochi blasts |work=The Telegraph |date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029160524/https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/man-who-claims-to-be-from-jehovahs-witnesses-surrenders-takes-responsibility-for-kochi-blasts/cid/1976191 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |title=Kalamassery convention centre blast: Police yet to record arrest of Dominic Martin |work=The Hindu |date=29 October 2023 |access-date=29 October 2023 |archive-date=29 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029164845/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kalamassery-convention-centre-blast-police-yet-to-record-arrest-of-dominic-martin/article67473986.ece |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kalamassery blast: Islamic organisation demands strict action against those who spread rumours |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |publisher=Onmanorama |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030141235/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2023/10/30/kalamassery-blast-islamic-organisation-demands.html |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
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Shortly after the bombing occurred, false claims that it was linked to the [[2023 Israel–Hamas war]] spread on social media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Soham |date=October 30, 2023 |title=Blasts targeting Kerala's Jehovah's Witnesses falsely linked to Israel-Hamas conflict |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=[[Logically (company)|Logically]] |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031191104/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/article/blasts-kerala-misinformation-israel-hamas |url-status=live}}</ref><br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[List of terrorist incidents in India]]<br />
* [[2023 Hamburg shooting]] – March 2023 attack against Jehovah's Witnesses in Germany<br />
<br />
==References==<br />
{{reflist}}<br />
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{{coord missing|Kerala}}<br />
<br />
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kerala bombing, 2023}}<br />
[[Category:2020s in Kerala|Bombing]]<br />
[[Category:Ernakulam district]]<br />
[[Category:History of Kochi]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in 2023]]<br />
[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in India]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 crimes in Asia]]<br />
[[Category:October 2023 events in India]]<br />
[[Category:Persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses]]</div>Brandon.macuser