iMessages, why does it need an email address?

[MyAppleWorld]

Hello

I have iMessage on my iphone and macbook pro.

They are out of sync but think that's another matter...

Basically, why does imessages require an email address? Why would i want to receive messages at an email address? my phone number is tied to the macbook and the iphone so i just dont understand! what am i missing?

 

[dictoresno]

It allows a way for a non phone device to also iMessage. Phones use their number by default. iPads or iPods use an email address since they don't have phone numbers. However my ipad mini and iPod will also allow to sync my iPhone phone number as well.