Apple is advancing the integration of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for Rich Communication Services (RCS) messages, with evidence found within the iOS 26.3 beta. This development suggests Apple is preparing for carriers to support E2EE for RCS, aligning with plans to adopt RCS Universal Profile 3.0. The implementation has implications for cross-platform messaging security and functionality between iPhones and Android devices.
Background on RCS Integration
Apple initially incorporated RCS support into iPhones with iOS 18, utilizing RCS Universal Profile 2.4. This integration followed advocacy from entities such as Google and the European Union. RCS functions as a modernized standard for messaging, with SMS serving as a fallback option when RCS is unavailable.
End-to-End Encryption Development
Information discovered in carrier bundle settings within the iOS 26.3 Beta 2 update indicates that Apple has implemented E2EE for RCS messages. To fully offer E2EE for RCS, iOS 26.3 or later versions would need to support RCS Universal Profile 3.0. This profile, which was announced in March 2025 as including E2EE for RCS, incorporates enhancements previously introduced in RCS Universal Profile 2.7. The GSM Association also previously announced its work to bring E2EE to RCS texting across Android and iPhone platforms.
Enhancements with RCS Universal Profile 3.0
The adoption of RCS Universal Profile 3.0 by Apple is expected to bring several new features to RCS messages, including:
- End-to-end encryption: This prevents third-party access to message content and attachments.
- In-line replies.
- Ability to edit messages.
- Ability to unsend messages.
- Full Tapback support.
These capabilities enhance the functionality of RCS, bringing it closer to the feature set of Apple's proprietary iMessage service. For comparison, iMessage conversations have supported E2EE by default since iOS 5. In-line replies were introduced in iOS 14, and options to edit and unsend iMessages became available with iOS 16.
Implementation and Rollout Expectations
Apple previously announced its intent to add end-to-end encrypted RCS message support to Messages in future updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS, though no specific timeline was provided at the time. The activity observed in the iOS 26.3 beta suggests progress toward this goal.
Successful implementation of E2EE for RCS requires support from cellular network carriers. The feature has the potential to enable carriers to display the encryption status for RCS messages. Apple is reportedly conducting internal tests for a potential release between iOS 26.3 and iOS 27. Initial rollout of E2EE for RCS may be restricted to certain countries as carriers begin their implementation. Currently, the associated code appears limited to four major carriers in France: Bouygues, Orange, SFR, and Free. Apple may also collaborate with Google to ensure a consistent experience across both iOS and Android platforms.