Apple releases end-to-end encryption for RCS messages with Android in iOS 26.5
Apple and Google finally implement end-to-end encryption on messages exchanged between iPhones and Android devices via the RCS protocol. The new system arrives in the beta version of iOS 26.5 and marks the first time that the two ecosystems have adopted a common security standard for cross-platform communications. The feature will work automatically for users with updated software and compatible carriers, eliminating the exposure of sensitive data sent between different brands of smartphones.
Integração direct to the GSMA universal standard
The key differentiator of this solution is the adoption of the GSMA’s Perfil Universal RCS as a base, instead of relying on proprietary encryption. Esse standard was developed collaboratively and incorporates encryption into the fundamental layer of the protocol. Large US Operadoras and Canadá have already joined the system, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Rogers, Bell and Telus.
Como works message protection
Quando both users have updated software, encryption activates automatically without requiring complex configurations. A lock icon will appear in the conversation to confirm that the connection is secure. Caso symbol does not appear, it means that one of the participants uses an operator that has not yet enabled the feature. The implementation remains in beta phase, with global rollout expected in a few weeks.
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Antes of this change, messages between iOS and Android worked through SMS or basic RCS, basically without protection. iMessage has always offered encryption between iPhones, but disabled this protection when including Android users in the conversation. Google attempted to implement its own RCS encryption solution years ago, but Apple did not adopt the proprietary approach.
Cronograma and feature availability
- iOS 26.5 in beta begins immediate testing
- Google Mensagens with updated version required for Android
- Compatible Operadoras already enabled: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon (US), Rogers, Bell, Telus (Canadá)
- Padlock Ícone indicates encrypted connection
- Global Implementação expected in weeks
- Promessa to become standard in all RCS chats after leaving beta
Fim from years of security fragmentation
The delay in reaching this agreement reflects commercial tensions between technology giants. Apple has maintained unencrypted cross-platform communication for more than a decade, using the difference in security as an argument to lock users into its ecosystem. Text messages between iPhones and Androids remained vulnerable as the company prioritized iMessage exclusivity within its devices.
Este agreement represents mutual recognition that basic privacy in communications should not be a competitive advantage, but a fundamental right. The solution adopts end-to-end encryption according to international standards, ensuring that confidential information, personal data and sensitive files travel protected regardless of the brand of the recipient’s smartphone.
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Learn more: Apple releases iOS 26.5 with RCS encryption and new privacy features
The green icon maintained on iOS will continue to identify messages from Android, but will no longer pose a security risk after full implementation. The change eliminates the practice of visually differentiating secure from insecure communications solely by the brand of the receiving device, standardizing protection for all users.
Implicações for users and operators
Usuários who share messages with contacts on another operating system can now send banking information, passwords, documents and personal data with the same confidence they have when communicating within their own ecosystem. The change particularly benefits family environments, professionals and groups of friends who mix iPhones and Androids.
Operadoras that have not yet adhered to the standard face pressure to implement the feature quickly, as failure to do so will make their users appear as unsafe in conversations. Apple and Google’s commitment to making encryption standard for all RCS chats signals that this is the mandatory direction of the market.
