Apple to Enable Encrypted RCS Messaging with Android Users

Apple has confirmed plans to roll out support for encrypted Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging, marking a significant step forward in secure communication between iOS and Android users. The announcement aligns with new GSMA specifications that enhance RCS with end-to-end encryption, a move that promises greater privacy for users.

The GSMA, the organization behind the RCS standard, detailed the milestone in a recent statement from Technical Director Tom Van Pelt. "Today, I am pleased to announce the next milestone: the availability of new GSMA specifications for RCS that include end-to-end encryption (E2EE) based on the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol," Van Pelt said. He explained that these specifications outline how MLS ensures messages and files stay confidential as they move between devices. This makes RCS the first widely used messaging service to offer interoperable E2EE across different providers' implementations, bolstered by features like SIM-based authentication for added protection against scams and fraud.

In a statement, Apple said it helped lead development of the encryption feature. "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," said Apple spokesperson Shane Bauer. "We will add support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messages to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS in future software updates."


The new RCS Universal Profile 3.0 doesn't stop at encryption. It also brings practical improvements like better audio codecs, richer deep links for business interactions, and easier subscription management. For users, this means group chats, high-resolution media sharing, read receipts, and typing indicators will remain seamless between iOS and Android, now with the added layer of security. The collaboration between Apple, mobile operators, and tech providers underscores a shared push for a more robust messaging ecosystem.

For Apple users, this update builds on the RCS integration introduced with iOS 18, enhancing an already familiar experience. While iMessage remains the default for Apple-to-Apple communication, encrypted RCS will ensure that texting an Android user is just as private and reliable.

More details on the rollout are expected as Apple prepares its next software updates across its platforms. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for the latest.