In iOS 26.5 end-to-end encryption for cross-platform RCS messages is enabled

Apple released a public version of iOS 26.5

After six weeks of beta testing the company announced the release of a new operating system version for iPhone – iOS 26.5. The most noticeable innovation is support for end‑to‑end encryption of RCS messages, but full rollout of this feature will take several months.

What changed
Item Description
Support for RCS In iOS 18.1 Apple first enabled RCS, allowing iPhone users to exchange messages with Android users. In 2023 testing of end‑to‑end encryption began in version 26.4.
End‑to‑end encryption It is now available by default in iOS 26.5 but marked as “beta.” Users can disable it via *Settings → Messages → RCS Messages → End‑to‑End Encryption (Beta Version)*.
Interface In chats with encrypted RCS messages a lock icon appears at the top of the window – the same one used in iMessage (encryption has been in effect since 2011). The lock is visible to Android users as well.

Limitations
* End‑to‑end encryption is not yet supported by all carriers. A full list of carriers is published on Apple’s official website.
* Because the feature will be rolled out gradually, even if your carrier is listed it may not be immediately available to all subscribers.

Bottom line: iOS 26.5 opens access to protected RCS messages, but users can enable and disable them manually, and full network coverage is expected in a few months.