iOS-to-Android messaging just got a whole lot more private

Apple brought cross-device RCS to the iPhone masses with the release of iOS 18 all the way back in 2024. Fast-forward to now, and that support is finally gaining the most important security layer.

Apple has been promising end-to-end encryption (E2EE) support for its cross-OS RCS messaging for a long time now, and the Cupertino-based tech giant is finally starting to deliver.

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E2EE support coming with iOS 26.5

Posts By  Rajesh Pandey

For reference, iPhone-to-iPhone messages are already encrypted using the PQ3 standard. With what Apple is rolling out now, the same level of privacy is extending to conversations between iOS and Android users.

Apple began testing E2EE for Apple-to-Android RCS conversations back in February. Starting today, E2EE for Apple-to-Android RCS conversations is rolling out in beta to iPhone users running iOS 26.5.

It's worth noting that the capability will be limited to 'supported carriers.' Check out the list here.

If you're a Google Messages user that regularly texts iPhone users, you'll see a familiar lock icon within the chat if the iPhone user you're texting has E2EE enabled. iPhone users will also see a lock icon to confirm the chat status.

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"Encryption is on by default and will be automatically enabled over time for new and existing RCS conversations," wrote Apple.

So, iPhone users, what are you waiting for? Update your phone to bridge the messaging security gap.