Highlights
- Apple is testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messaging in the iOS 26.4 beta.
- The feature introduces a lock icon in RCS chats, requires RCS Universal Profile 3.0 and is enabled by default on supported devices and carriers.
- It is available in iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4 developer betas.
End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging testing in iOS 26.4 Beta. (Image credit – 9to5Google)
Apple has begun testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages with the release of the iOS 26.4 beta, alongside iPadOS 26.4 and macOS Tahoe 26.4. The move marks a significant step toward securing cross-platform messaging between iPhone and Android users.
Apple released the first developer betas of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and macOS Tahoe 26.4. The updates are currently available to developers with a public launch expected in the spring. Here’s more detail on that.
End-to-End Encryption Expands to RCS Messaging
Apple has been collaborating with the GSMA to bring end-to-end encryption to RCS messaging. While Apple’s iMessage platform has long supported E2EE for messages exchanged between iPhones, cross-platform conversations between iPhone and Android users have lacked full encryption.
Although RCS chats between Android devices already support E2EE, communications between Android and iPhone users have not previously been secured at the same level. With the integration of end-to-end encryption for RCS, Apple aims to ensure that cross-platform messages become as secure as iMessage conversations.
How RCS Encryption Works in iOS 26.4 Beta?
Developers testing the iOS 26.4 beta will notice a new toggle in the Settings app that enables end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging. The feature is switched on by default for supported devices and carriers.
According to Apple, most carriers that currently support RCS are also expected to support RCS end-to-end encryption. However, during the first beta phase, RCS encryption on Apple devices is available for testing only when iMessage is disabled.
Users running the beta software will see a lock icon appear in RCS chats, indicating that end-to-end encryption is active. The lock symbol will now also appear in iMessage conversations.
Apple has noted that RCS encryption will roll out gradually to beta users, meaning not all testers will gain immediate access.
RCS Universal Profile 3.0 Required
To enable full end-to-end encryption for RCS, Apple will need to adopt RCS Universal Profile 3.0. The GSMA recently published this updated standard with Apple’s involvement. Currently, Apple supports RCS Universal Profile 2.4.
The newer Universal Profile 3.0 specification also introduces additional cross-platform messaging. These include the ability to edit and delete text messages, as well as reply inline to specific messages during conversations between Android and iPhone users.
FAQs
Q1. What new security feature is Apple testing in iOS 26.4 beta?
Answer. Apple is testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messaging, making cross-platform chats between iPhone and Android users more secure.
Q2. How can users tell if RCS encryption is active on their device?
Answer. A lock icon will appear in RCS chats (and iMessage conversations) when end-to-end encryption is enabled.
Q3. What standard is required for full RCS encryption support?
Answer. Apple will need to adopt RCS Universal Profile 3.0, which adds features like editing, deleting, and inline replies in cross-platform messaging.