The only thing holding me back from getting an Android phone is the lack of iMessage.
why should you choose iMessage? i suggest avoiding platforms that lock you in. long time ago i switch from SMS to whatsapp and other platforms that let me backup the msgs and easily switch between phones and laptops.
WhatsApp is locked to a single device and phone number. And the browser integration requires your phone to be connected to the internet. At least you can export the messages. I understand this is not "lock-in" but it isn't the best solution either.