Overview
- Apple’s release notes say the encryption feature is for testing only and will reach customers in a future iOS 26 update.
- In this beta, RCS encryption works only between Apple devices, effectively for conversations where iMessage is disabled.
- A new Messages setting for testing is enabled by default, though functionality is being activated progressively for beta users.
- Encrypted RCS threads show a lock icon in the conversation interface, and iMessage threads display the same indicator for parity.
- Wider cross-platform availability requires carrier support and GSMA’s RCS Universal Profile 3.0, which also adds editing, deletion, and inline replies.