Apple has begun rolling out beta support for end-to-end encrypted Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging with the release of iOS 26.5. Users will need an iPhone running the new operating system and connected to a compatible wireless network to take advantage of secure messaging capabilities. In the United States, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon will support this protocol from the outset.
To use encrypted RCS, Android users must have the latest version of Google Messages installed on their devices and also be connected to a compatible network. iPhone users will see a new lock icon at the top of their RCS chats, indicating that the conversation is secure. “Encryption is on by default and will be automatically enabled over time for new and existing RCS conversations,” Apple stated.
Despite the introduction of RCS messaging, messages between Apple devices will still utilize the iMessage protocol rather than RCS. In conjunction with iOS 26.5, Apple also updated its iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, and watchOS to version 26.5.
Other updates in iOS 26.5 include a new “suggested places” feature in Maps, which highlights locations of interest based on recent searches and trending spots. Additionally, a new Pride-themed “Luminance” wallpaper was introduced, described as colorful and customizable.
The transition to encrypted RCS messaging concludes a prolonged effort for its adoption between Apple and Google. Users of both platforms can now engage in secure communications without relying on third-party applications such as Signal or WhatsApp. The effort involved years of complicated negotiations, a controversial pressure campaign, and influence from Chinese regulators.
