Apple first introduced support for RCS in its Messages app with the rollout of iOS 18 in September 2024. However, the feature arrived with a major limitation because it lacked end-to-end encryption, widely regarded as the strongest form of protection for digital communication. Nearly two years later, Apple is finally preparing to address that issue with the release of iOS 26.5.
What is RCS, and why does encryption matter?
RCS, or Rich Communication Services, is essentially a modern upgrade to traditional SMS and MMS messaging. Unlike older text messaging systems, RCS relies on internet connectivity through mobile data or Wi Fi to send messages.
The service is managed by telecom operators, allowing smartphones to communicate with carrier networks and partner systems to establish RCS messaging.
RCS offers several features unavailable in regular SMS and MMS. Users can send high-resolution photos, videos, audio clips, and files without worrying about size limits. It also supports read receipts, typing indicators, and group chats.
End-to-end encryption plays a crucial role in securing these conversations. The technology ensures that messages cannot be intercepted or read by anyone other than the sender and recipient, including hackers or third parties. The same type of encryption is already used by Meta to secure conversations on WhatsApp.
RCS messages have supported end-to-end encryption on Google Messages since 2020. However, Apple’s Messages app continued to leave RCS chats unencrypted, even though iMessages between Apple users were already protected. That situation is now set to change with iOS 26.5.
Encryption support finally arrives
Apple has released the iOS 26.5 Release Candidate version to developers. According to reports, the update notes confirm that end-to-end encryption for RCS messages will now be supported inside the Messages app.
Once enabled, the feature will secure conversations exchanged between Apple and Android devices through RCS.
There is one important requirement, however. Both the sender and the receiver must have RCS functionality turned on for encryption to work properly across devices.
Availability
Apple has currently made iOS 26.5 available to developers, while the wider public rollout is expected later this month.
