Apple introduced cross-device RCS to the iPhone lots with the discharge of iOS 18 all of the long ago in 2024. Rapid-forward to now, and that toughen is in the end gaining a very powerful safety layer.
Apple has been promising end-to-end encryption (E2EE) toughen for its cross-OS RCS messaging for a very long time now, and the Cupertino-based tech large is in the end beginning to ship.
![]()
iPhone’s subsequent giant replace will in the end safe Android RCS chats
E2EE toughen coming with iOS 26.5
For reference, iPhone-to-iPhone messages are already encrypted the use of the PQ3 same old. With what Apple is rolling out now, the similar stage of privateness is extending to conversations between iOS and Android customers.
Apple started checking out E2EE for Apple-to-Android RCS conversations again in February. Beginning as of late, E2EE for Apple-to-Android RCS conversations is rolling out in beta to iPhone customers working iOS 26.5.
It is value noting that the aptitude will likely be restricted to ‘supported carriers.’ Take a look at the checklist right here.
If you are a Google Messages person that often texts iPhone customers, you can see a well-known lock icon throughout the chat if the iPhone person you might be texting has E2EE enabled. iPhone customers can even see a lock icon to substantiate the chat standing.
“Encryption is on by means of default and will likely be mechanically enabled over the years for brand new and present RCS conversations,” wrote Apple.
So, iPhone customers, what are you looking ahead to? Replace your telephone to bridge the messaging safety hole.



