Apple confirms iOS 26.5 Messages app adds RCS end
9to5Mac • • general
Key Points:
- Apple has released the iOS 26.5 Release Candidate (RC) along with official notes confirming a key update to the Messages app, introducing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging.
- RCS messaging enhances communication between iPhones and Android devices by bringing iMessage-like features to green bubble conversations.
- The end-to-end encrypted RCS feature is currently in beta and will be available with supported carriers, with Apple planning to publish a list of these carriers soon.
- This feature was previously tested in iOS 26.4 beta but was removed before that update's public release; it is now confirmed to be included in the final iOS 26.5 version.
- The rollout of encrypted RCS messaging will occur over time as carriers begin supporting the feature.
