In some social circles, yes. Teenagers tend to cling into anything that could potentially be interpreted as a social status symbol or group identity - in the US, for some bizarre reason, people still use the default messaging app and SMS so iMessage and it’s “green vs blue bubble” design immediately fills this space. This can also show up in very shallow dating scenes, like someone using Tinder and just looking for a random hook up with a nice dinner beforehand - they could see the iPhone as a sign of wealth and available money to spend.

But for most adults, living normal lives… I don’t think so. At least, never have been an issue with any of my friends, family members, academic peers, coworkers…

in the US, for some bizarre reason

Is it really that bizarre to use the default messaging app that uses the most widespread protocol(s)?

Maybe not bizarre, but I think the regional differences are just intereting. I am living in central europe and I honestly don't know anyone who used SMS in the last 5-10 years. The only reason to use it is when your data ran out.

As someone who had visited Europe a ton , I know why you guys use Whatsapp. It’s because you all have so many weird phone numbers lil