US-based Apple iOS 26.5 Introduces RCS End-to-End Encryption, Aligning with iMessage Privacy Level for the First Time

en.Wedoany.com Reported - On May 4, 2026, Apple Inc. pushed the iOS 26.5 Release Candidate to developers, officially introducing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iPhone and Android devices. Apple confirmed in the release notes that this feature is rolling out gradually as a beta on supported carrier networks, is enabled by default, and users can find an independent toggle in the "Messages" section of the Settings app.

This update elevates the privacy protection level of cross-platform RCS messages to align with Apple's iMessage standard for the first time. Encryption covers text messages, high-resolution photos, videos, and various attachments, and also applies to group chat scenarios. Since RCS encryption utilizes the Messaging Layer Security protocol established by the Internet Engineering Task Force, encryption interoperability between Apple and Android devices is guaranteed at the protocol level. After the update is complete, a small lock icon will appear next to the send button in message conversations, allowing users to intuitively confirm the encryption status.

To ensure network compatibility, Apple is adopting a phased rollout strategy based on carrier networks. This feature briefly appeared in the iOS 26.4 beta but did not ship with the official release. It was then available throughout the current testing cycle until this Release Candidate confirmed its entry into the release channel.

iOS 26.5 also includes system updates such as new Pride wallpapers. RCS encryption has been rated by multiple tech media outlets as the most noteworthy privacy feature upgrade in this update.

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