iOS 26.5 encrypts RCS chats between iPhone and Android
End-to-end encryption finally arrives for cross-platform RCS messages.
Deep Dive
Apple's iOS 26.5 update, released Monday, introduces end-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iPhone and Android users. The feature, currently in beta, also extends to iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Vision Pro. To enable, users need carrier support and Android contacts on the latest Google Messages. A lock icon confirms encryption. The update also adds Pride wallpaper, Suggested Places in Apple Maps, and for iPhone and iPad alone, resolves more than 60 security vulnerabilities.
Key Points
- End-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iOS and Android, also covering iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Vision Pro.
- Requires carrier support and Android users on latest Google Messages; a lock icon indicates encryption is active.
- Additional features: Pride wallpaper, Suggested Places in Apple Maps, local ads, and fixes for 60+ security vulnerabilities.
Why It Matters
RCS encryption closes a major privacy gap between iOS and Android messaging.