How can I deactivate the iMessage feature so I am able to receive messages on my new phone?

There are some cases in which there will be problems when moving from using an Apple unlock iphone4 to a different type of iphones. This is because of the way that Apple iMessage is set up.
To deactivate through your iphone:

1. From the Apple home screen, choose the “Settings” icon
2.  Tap on the “Messages” feature
3. Switch the iMessage slider to the OFF position

                             -OR-
If you do not have any access to the iphone, contact Apple Support so that they may help you to de-activate it.