iOS 26.5 update brings secure RCS message support between Android and iPhone users: How it works
Last Updated: 2026-05-12 14:39:48
Apple is finally making RCS chat work between Android and iOS devices thanks to the new iOS 26.5 update that is rolling out this week. The company is giving us a teaser of this feature with the new beta version that will be publicly available for more users in the coming weeks. The main highlight of RCS chat support across Android and iOS platforms is that you now have end-to-end encryption (e2e) keeping the messages as secure as your WhatsApp chats are.
Google has been pushing Apple to support RCS chats so that people who have friends with iPhone can message and not be limited to WhatsApp or other platforms.
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iOS 26.5 update brings e2e security for RCS chats
Google's mission is almost done now that the iOS 26.5 beta version promises e2e support for RCS chats when you message someone from an Android phone to an iOS device. This is a big deal and shows you how both the tech giants are finally working together and competing in the same space. RCS chat has long been dubbed as the modern SMS replacement with better security and more advanced features.
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E2e has proven its value with WhatsApp and Telegram for many years. It ensures that all the messages or media files you share with the other person are only readable to them. Neither Google or Apple can access the content.
How e2e works in RCS chat between Android and iOS users
RCS chat with e2e support is limited to the telecom carriers in select markets. For people in the US, you have the feature available through AT&T, C Spire, Cellcom, Family Mobile, T-Mobile USA, Verizon and more. In India, the security RCS version is available with Reliance Jio for the users.
Both the platforms will get e2e in RCS chat enabled by default, which means you don’t have to manually turn on any settings for the security feature. However, the iOS 26.5 beta update does seem to have a toggle button which means you can disable the security feature in the device settings when needed.
Apple is going to have a busy second leg of 2026, not just because of the WWD 2026 event in June, but also seeing Tim Cook replaced by John Ternus as the company’s new chief.