Apple will introduce end-to-end encryption for RCS messages between iPhone and Android

Apple has announced support for end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages, which will enable secure communications between iPhone and Android users.

Here's What We Know

The feature will be available through an updated RCS standard developed by the GSM Association in collaboration with device manufacturers, carriers and technology companies, including Apple. The new standard utilises the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol, which for the first time enables interoperable encryption between different platforms.

End-to-end encryption, already available in iMessage, will now be integrated into RCS messaging on Apple devices with future updates to iOS, iPadOS, macOS and watchOS. This technology ensures that only the sender and recipient can see the content of messages, excluding access by third parties such as carriers or service providers.

RCS support was added to the iPhone with the release of iOS 18, but previously there was no encryption for messages between platforms. Apple is now looking to address this gap, making messaging more secure and private for all users.

Source: GSMA