Google and Apple have started rolling out end-to-end encryption for Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging, a move aimed at making conversations between Android and iPhone users more secure. The feature is being introduced by default for supported devices and networks, marking a major step in cross-platform messaging privacy. The encryption rollout is currently available in beta for iPhone users running iOS 26.5 with supported carriers, as well as Android users using the latest version of Google Messages. The companies described the initiative as a joint industry effort designed to modernize messaging and replace traditional SMS with the more advanced RCS standard.
According to the announcement, “when RCS messages are end-to-end encrypted, they cannot be read while they are sent between devices.” This means messages are protected during transmission, preventing third parties from accessing conversations between users on different platforms.
Google has already offered end-to-end encrypted chats between Android devices for several years through Google Messages. The latest update extends similar protection to conversations between Android and iPhone users, addressing a long-standing gap in secure cross-platform messaging.
Users of Google Messages will be able to identify encrypted cross-platform chats through the same lock icon previously used for encrypted RCS conversations. Google and Apple said the feature will be switched on automatically over time for both new and existing RCS chats.
However, the companies did not provide a specific timeline for when all eligible users would gain access to the feature. They also declined to list all mobile carriers currently supporting encrypted RCS messaging during the beta phase.
The rollout is seen as another significant collaboration between the two tech giants, whose messaging systems have historically operated separately. By expanding encrypted RCS support, Google and Apple are aiming to improve privacy standards while making communication between Android and iPhone users more seamless and secure.
