As opposed to what? It’s the same as any other network effect in any other social group.

Using signal or telegram or WhatsApp isn’t intellectual superiority. It’s just a network effect motivated by other factors like cost of data vs cost of sms etc… at a certain point of time.

while using other messaging services isn’t a sign of intellectual superiority, judging others for their choices is very much a sign of low self confidence.

I don't think it's the same. Joining the iMessage network requires purchasing an Apple phone, which is a barrier that may be insurmountable to teens that aren't making their own purchasing decisions, regardless of how badly they want to join.

Joining any of those other networks just requires installing a free app.

That’s not the point though. He was saying that users of iMessage are brainwashed by Apple marketing with the implication that those who don’t use it are not. .

your comments are salient but irrelevant to that point. The choice of messaging platform is due to networking effects regardless of platform, and their smugness is unwarranted

Using Signal absolutely demonstrates a level of care that using e2e-encrypted-but-not-really-because-the-FBI-coerced-us iMessage doesn't.

iMessage is e2e as long as neither party backs up to iCloud. So the point is somewhat disingenuous

What's "disingenuous" is Apple's marketing. Since 90%+ of people use iCloud Backup, it's almost but not quite a lie.

Ah yes, "Everyone is an idiot except the fuckers who do the same shit I do"

Android is not tied to a single phone brand. Their users have a myriad of options.