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

iOS 26.5’s RC is available now, along with official release notes, and with them 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 Androids. It brings several iMessage-style features to your green bubble conversations.

And in iOS 26.5, Apple has confirmed that RCS messaging will now be more secure and private than ever.

That’s because, per the company’s iOS 26.5 release notes, the update adds the following:

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 info is not yet available, though.

Apple has offered end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in the iOS 26.5 beta until now. But it was also featured in iOS 26.4’s beta before later being removed pre-launch.

We suspected Apple planned to ship the feature in iOS 26.5, since it never cautioned otherwise—such a warning was given during iOS 26.4’s beta. It’s good to see the company officially confirm that though.

End-to-end encryption for RCS is still labeled a beta, but it will be available in the final shipping version of iOS 26.5.

Best iPhone accessories

• AirPods Pro 3 (now only $199, down from $249)
• MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone
• 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack
• 100W USB-C fast charging power adapter
• Apple’s new AirTag 2 (1-pack / 4-pack)