VERIFIEDBy Xavier Rivera· ·1 min read
Apple Rolls Out End-to-End Encrypted RCS Beta on iOS 26.5
Apple and Google have begun rolling out end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in beta for iOS 26.5 and latest Google Messages users. The update adds default encryption and a lock icon to the cross-platform SMS replacement, enhancing message privacy in transit.
Source:Apple Newsroom
TL;DRAI · 60 sec read
On May 11, 2026, Apple announced that end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging is beginning to roll out in beta. iPhone users running iOS 26.5 now see a lock icon in RCS chats, indicating that messages are protected with end-to-end encryption.
Apple and Google have led a cross-industry effort to bring end-to-end encryption to Rich Communication Services, the cross-platform format that replaces traditional SMS. The collaboration improves security and privacy for messaging between different operating systems.
The beta targets iPhone users on iOS 26.5 with supported carriers and Android users on the latest Google Messages app. Encryption turns on by default and activates automatically over time for both new and existing RCS conversations.
Users recognize encrypted chats by the lock icon. Messages stay unreadable in transit. iMessage remains end-to-end encrypted by design and continues to serve as the best option for communication between Apple devices.
Apple and Google have led a cross-industry effort to bring end-to-end encryption to Rich Communication Services, the cross-platform format that replaces traditional SMS. The collaboration improves security and privacy for messaging between different operating systems.
The beta targets iPhone users on iOS 26.5 with supported carriers and Android users on the latest Google Messages app. Encryption turns on by default and activates automatically over time for both new and existing RCS conversations.
Users recognize encrypted chats by the lock icon. Messages stay unreadable in transit. iMessage remains end-to-end encrypted by design and continues to serve as the best option for communication between Apple devices.
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