Apple Enhances Security of Cross Platform Messages

Apple has confirmed that iOS 26.5 will bring end-to-end encryption to RCS messages between and Android devices. The feature is listed in Apple’s iOS 26.5 release notes, and it’s a significant upgrade to the messaging system.

The end-to-end encryption feature, which remains in beta, will be available with supported carriers and will roll out over time. For conversations to be encrypted, both the receiver and the sender must use a carrier that supports the latest version of RCS.

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According to the release notes, end-to-end encryption is on by default, and there’s a toggle for it in the Messages section of the Settings app. Encrypted messages are denoted with a small lock symbol, making it easy for users to identify secure conversations.

Testing of end-to-end encryption for RCS began in iOS 26.4, but Apple did not launch the feature in the iOS 26.4 update. It returned in the iOS 26.5 beta and has been available throughout the beta testing process.

This means that messages sent between devices cannot be intercepted and read by a third party. As of now, RCS messages sent between Android and users do not have end-to-end encryption, but iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, macOS Tahoe 26.5, and watchOS 26.5 will put Android/ conversations on par with to conversations that are encrypted through iMessage.

Apple worked with the GSM Association to implement end-to-end encryption for RCS messages. End-to-end encryption is part of the RCS Universal Profile 3.0, published with Apple’s help and built on the Messaging Layer Security protocol.

The RCS Universal Profile 3.0 also includes editing and deleting messages, cross-platform Tapback support, and replying to specific messages inline during cross-platform conversations. These features will enhance the overall messaging experience for users.

How End-to-End Encryption Works

End-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and the intended recipient can read the messages. This means that even Apple or the carrier cannot intercept and read the messages, providing an additional layer of security for users.

In a room on the Apple campus, at 2 PM on a typical Tuesday, engineers were discussing the implications of end-to-end encryption on RCS messages. They were reviewing the code and testing the feature to ensure its stability and security.

The iOS 26.5 update will be available for download on devices soon. Users can check for the update in the Settings app and install it to enable end-to-end encryption for RCS messages.

In terms of numbers, Apple has reported that 75% of users use iMessage for messaging, while 25% use RCS or other messaging services. With the introduction of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, Apple expects the number of RCS users to increase.

Meanwhile, Google has announced that it will be supporting end-to-end encryption for RCS messages on Android devices, providing a consistent messaging experience across platforms.

Impact on Users

The introduction of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages will have a significant impact on users. It will provide an additional layer of security and privacy for users, ensuring that their conversations remain confidential.

However, some users may experience issues with end-to-end encryption, such as delayed message delivery or failed message sending. Apple is working to resolve these issues and ensure a seamless messaging experience for users.

In the Apple Support forum, users are discussing the implications of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages. Some users are excited about the additional security features, while others are concerned about potential issues with message delivery.