Apple will soon support encrypted RCS messaging with Android users 

‘We will add support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messages to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS in future software updates.’

In a major step toward improved digital privacy, iPhone and Android users will soon be able to exchange end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) Rich Communication Services (RCS) messages. This development comes as the GSM Association (GSMA) unveils updated RCS specifications, incorporating state-of-the-art encryption through the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol. For the first time, this update bridges the gap between different platforms, ensuring secure, private conversations across ecosystems.

The Journey to Cross-Platform Encryption

The GSMA began working on enabling E2EE between Android and iPhone devices in September last year, collaborating closely with mobile operators, device manufacturers, and tech giants — including Apple. Until now, Apple’s iMessage has offered E2EE, but this protection didn’t extend to RCS chats. Meanwhile, Google Messages has supported E2EE by default for RCS texts, but only between Google Messages users. Conversations across platforms or with other RCS clients remained unprotected.

Shane Bauer, an Apple spokesperson, emphasized the significance of this breakthrough:

“End-to-end encryption is a powerful privacy and security technology that iMessage has supported since the beginning, and now we are pleased to have helped lead a cross-industry effort to bring end-to-end encryption to the RCS Universal Profile published by the GSMA.”

Apple has committed to adding E2EE support for RCS messages across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS in upcoming software updates. This move not only strengthens Apple’s existing privacy infrastructure but also highlights its willingness to collaborate with industry players for the greater good of user security.

Why E2EE Matters for Users

End-to-end encryption is a crucial security feature that prevents third parties — including messaging providers, mobile carriers, and hackers — from accessing the content of your messages. With E2EE, only the sender and receiver can view the conversation, drastically reducing the risk of data breaches or surveillance.

By integrating this protection into RCS messaging, users will no longer have to worry about switching to third-party apps for secure communication. Whether coordinating plans, sharing sensitive information, or simply chatting with loved ones, users can do so with peace of mind, knowing their messages are shielded from prying eyes.

The Future of Secure Messaging

The RCS standard’s evolution marks a significant step forward for modern messaging. It elevates RCS to a competitive level with encrypted platforms like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram, eliminating the previous fragmentation that left users vulnerable depending on their device or app choice.

Google has long advocated for a unified, secure messaging experience. A spokesperson for Google expressed enthusiasm for the updated specification:

“We’ve always been committed to providing a secure messaging experience, and Google Messages users have had end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging for years. We’re excited to have this updated specification from GSMA and work as quickly as possible with the mobile ecosystem to implement and extend this important user protection to cross-platform RCS messaging.”

What’s Next for iOS and Android Users?

Apple introduced initial RCS support in iPhones with the iOS 18 update, bridging some compatibility gaps with Android devices. Now, with E2EE rolling out, the messaging experience will become even more seamless and secure. Although Apple hasn’t provided an exact timeline for the release, the promise of cross-platform encrypted messaging is on the horizon.

As tech giants align on privacy-first solutions, users stand to benefit from a more connected, secure digital landscape. The days of worrying whether your messages are truly private — or whether your friends are using the same messaging app — may soon be over.

In an era where data privacy is more critical than ever, this joint effort between Apple, Google, and the GSMA demonstrates what’s possible when innovation meets collaboration. The future of messaging is bright — and, most importantly, encrypted.