> Does Android have something similar to iMessage?

Kind of-ish. The RCS support is rolling out slowly. Of course there is a big difference in that RCS is not end to end encrypted. Also, there is nothing stopping Apple from implementing RCS as well, but I doubt they will do.

If Apple does adopt RCS, it's likely only as a fallback for iMessage, much like SMS today. And rather than Apple abandoning control over their messaging platform, I'd sooner bet on Apple releasing iMessage and Facetime for Android with a small subscription fee. Probably in the range of US$1-$2/month.

If there's one thing that Apple hates more than lost profits, it's handing over control of anything to carriers. Cheap-subscription iMessage/Facetime for Android would strangle RCS/Duo in the cradle and put a thumb in the eye of the carriers, while bringing in some steady and significant regular revenue. Let's not forget that Apple is already offering a subscription service on Android, Apple Music. They're not averse to the concept.

>> Does Android have something similar to iMessage?

No. The parent to your comment means open iMessage between Android and iOS.

That's obviously never going to happen. The best we can hope for is probably something Googely with support for iOS

Which is not going to happen because Google has multiple competing messaging apps.

And is regularly killing one to start two new ones.

They did and it was hangouts. Worked great on iOS as well.