Apple Plans End-to-End Encryption for iPhone and Android Messages via RCS Protocol

Apple is set to introduce end-to-end encryption for messages between iPhone and Android users through the RCS protocol in its next operating system update. This move is significant for enhancing user privacy and preventing third parties, including telecom operators, from accessing message content.

RCS Support in iOS 26

Apple confirmed that the current version is iOS 18, meaning RCS encryption support will come with the next major update, anticipated to be iOS 26. This update will also feature enhancements to the RCS service, such as displaying emoji reactions directly instead of text-based explanations, along with features for editing, deleting, and directly responding to messages between users of both platforms.

Gradual and Experimental Rollout

Indications from certain French telecom packages, alongside beta versions of iOS 26.3, suggest that some companies may enable the encrypted messaging feature via RCS by default. These improvements are expected to gradually reach users with the iOS 26.4 beta before the official rollout of the feature.

A Smoother and More Secure Experience

With the introduction of encryption and support for modern features across both systems, Apple aims to provide a more secure and seamless messaging experience, reducing the gap between iPhone and Android in instant messaging services, aligning with modern messaging applications like WhatsApp and Telegram.