Apple now means that you can have encrypted RCS conversations with Android customers during the Messages app on iOS. As a part of iOS 26.5, which used to be launched on Monday, Apple added strengthen for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in beta, that means that Apple and Google can’t see your messages whilst they’re despatched.
With iOS 26.5, you’ll see a lock icon and a small “Encrypted” message on the most sensible of the chat to notice whilst you’re having an encrypted dialog with an Android consumer and are on a provider that helps the characteristic. Apple says that encryption will likely be on by means of default and “will likely be routinely enabled through the years for brand new and current RCS conversations.” Android customers can even want to be the use of the latest model of Google Messages. Apple began checking out encrypted RCS chats with Android customers previous this 12 months.
iOS 26.5 additionally contains new wallpapers and the addition of commercials in Maps. “Maps might display native commercials according to your approximate location, present seek phrases, or view of the map whilst you seek,” in step with a pop-up proven I noticed after I opened Maps with the replace put in. Apple says promoting data “isn’t related in your Apple account.
Along with iOS 26.5, Apple launched iPadOS 26.5, macOS Tahoe 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 on Monday.
