Apple brings encrypted RCS to cross-platform messaging

Apple has released iOS 26.5, bringing end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) RCS messaging between iPhone and Android devices, marking a significant milestone in cross-platform messaging security. The feature, which is rolling out gradually over the coming months, ensures that messages exchanged between iOS and Android users cannot be intercepted or read by anyone else during transmission. This implementation follows the GSMA's RCS Universal Profile standards and represents the first time Apple has supported encryption for RCS communications with Android devices. The encrypted RCS feature is currently labeled as "Beta" and will be automatically enabled for new and existing conversations over time. Users can verify encryption status by checking for a padlock icon in their Messages app, with iOS displaying "Text Message · RCS | Encrypted" at the center of the screen and Google Messages showing its familiar lock indicator. To ensure the feature is active, iPhone users should navigate to Settings > Messages > RCS Messaging and confirm that "End-to-End Encryption (Beta)" is enabled, while Android users need to have the latest version of Google Messages installed. The rollout is limited to supported carriers, with Apple listing over 20 US carriers including major providers like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and their respective prepaid and subsidiary brands. This development addresses the longstanding "blue versus green bubble" divide that has created social stigmas and usability issues for cross-platform messaging users. Alongside this security update, iOS 26.5 also introduces Pride-themed wallpapers and preliminary work supporting ads in Apple Maps, though features related to third-party wearable support in the EU have not yet appeared in public releases.