Apple confirms iOS 26.5 Messages app adds RCS end-to-end encryption

Source: 9to5Mac

iOS 26.5’s RC is available now, along with official release notes. Apple has confirmed that the update will bring a key RCS upgrade to the Messages app.

Messages app to support RCS end-to-end encryption in iOS 26.5

RCS messaging is the best way for iPhones to message with Android devices, bringing several iMessage‑style features to green‑bubble conversations. In iOS 26.5, Apple has confirmed that RCS messaging will now be more secure and private than ever.

According to the iOS 26.5 release notes, the update adds:

End‑to‑end encrypted RCS messaging (beta) in Messages is available with supported carriers and will roll out over time.

Ahead of iOS 26.5’s public launch (likely next week), Apple plans to list carriers that support RCS end‑to‑end encryption on this webpage. The information is not yet available.

Apple offered end‑to‑end encrypted RCS messaging in the iOS 26.5 beta, and it had previously appeared in the iOS 26.4 beta before being removed pre‑launch. The feature is now confirmed for the final shipping version of iOS 26.5, though it remains labeled as a beta.