iPhone-Android RCS Conversations Are End-to-End Encrypted in iOS 26.5

Apple says iOS 26.5 will add end-to-end encryption to RCS chats between iPhone and Android users.

The feature is enabled by default and shows a lock icon when both sides are using supported carriers and the latest Android messaging app.

This closes a long-standing security gap, making cross-platform texting much closer to the privacy level of iMessage.

Rollout will be gradual as carrier and device support expands.