Apple starts testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messages on iPhone

Apple begins testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in iOS 26.4 beta

Apple has started testing end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) RCS messages with the developer beta of iOS 26.4, released on Monday. This feature allows iPhone users to send encrypted RCS messages to Android users, enabling cross-platform secure communication.

Feature availability and limitations

During the iOS 26.4 beta, RCS encryption is only available when iMessage is disabled. iPhone users must manually disable iMessage to access the encrypted RCS messaging feature in the beta version.

Technical background and future plans

The implementation of E2EE for RCS requires Apple to adopt the RCS Universal Profile 3.0, which was published by the GSMA with Apple’s input. While the current testing phase is limited to the developer beta, Apple plans to roll out the full feature to all users in a future iOS 26 software update.

Related updates and sources

• Apple Begins Testing End-to-End Encryption for RCS Messages in iOS 26.4 Beta
• Apple tests RCS end-to-end encryption on iPhone without Android
• Apple is finally testing encrypted RCS, but not in the way you’d expect

來源：https://www.theverge.com/tech/879792/apple-iphone-android-rcs-messages-end-to-end-encrypted