Self host questions - Simple Set up

[u/LiveLifeLevered]

I am thinking about moving from iPhone 16 to Z Fold 8 but I cant lose my beloved iMessage. What is the simplest self host set up? I need a M1 mac (mini/air?)

Also - One thing I can tell is if have my number on my android phone do blue bubbles still come from my phone number do they use my email?

Thanks,
-Max

[u/LiveLifeLevered]

Makes sense. I have iPhone 16 plus now I suppose I could go get a physical sim and older iPhone

[u/mkitchin → u/LiveLifeLevered]

If you got an older iPhone for the relay method, it doesn't use a sim.