> I think a lot of Android manufacturers would be willing to pay Apple for iMessage access/licensing.
I think you overestimate the markup Android manufacturers make, and underestimate what Google makes.
> I strongly doubt that Apple would be willing to sell that without the EU forcing them to.
You would be wrong! Apple already allows programmatic access to iMessage (call centers can dial/message directly with it including number-fronting, do apps, etc), so it really is just a matter of the fact that Google isn't willing to pay.
I think you overestimate the markup Android manufacturers make, and underestimate what Google makes.
> I strongly doubt that Apple would be willing to sell that without the EU forcing them to.
You would be wrong! Apple already allows programmatic access to iMessage (call centers can dial/message directly with it including number-fronting, do apps, etc), so it really is just a matter of the fact that Google isn't willing to pay.