Apple has rolled out end‑to‑end encryption for RCS chats between iPhone and Android, a first for cross‑platform messaging. The feature lands in iOS 26.5 and rolls out gradually through carriers that support the latest RCS version. Users toggle it in Settings, and encrypted texts carry a lock icon. This upgrade aims to match iMessage's security level across devices and for users.

Beta testing began with iOS 26.4, but the feature was withheld until the 26.5 release. Apple keeps the encryption in beta, meaning carriers must update their infrastructure before end‑to‑end protection activates. Both sender and receiver need compatible carriers; otherwise, messages fall back to unencrypted RCS. This limitation underscores the need for carrier coordination in the rollout to ensure security for users.

The encryption relies on the Messaging Layer Security protocol, part of the RCS Universal Profile 3.0 that Apple helped publish with the GSM Association. The profile also introduces message editing, deletion, tapback cross‑platform replies, and inline replies to specific messages, expanding RCS beyond simple text. This breadth positions RCS as a competitive alternative to legacy SMS for developers and users worldwide.

Both iOS 26.5 and its counterparts on iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, and watchOS will treat Android/Apple chats the same as iMessage, giving users consistent privacy across platforms. The rollout depends on carrier adoption, so users may see the lock icon only after network updates. Until then, cross‑platform chats remain unencrypted. Meanwhile, developers can leverage the new API to enhance messaging features today.