Washington, Nov 10 - Apple has reportedly introduced a new tool that will allow former iPhone users to disable iMessage- a feature that has long been a nagging problem to users.

The iMessage service was introduced by Apple in 2011 and allowed iPhone owners to communicate with one another over data networks and Wi-Fi, instead of using text messages on cellular networks. Apple kept a track of users' phone numbers so that when an iPhone user sent a message, it was automatically shifted to the iMessage instead.

However, users who switched to android or windows phone had to turn the message service off on their old phone. Some iPhone owners complained that turning off iMessage did not solve the problem. Often the message sent by a sender was never delivered.

Users had sued the tech giant over the issue complaining they fell into a void where iMessage texts do not travel.

Apple's new tool will now provide step-by-step instructions for de-registering iPhones still in the possession of their former users.

For users who no longer have their iPhones, the page includes an option for typing in their phone number and receiving a confirmation code that can be entered to confirm their choice. (ANI)