The feature is currently in beta with iOS 26.5. With this update, Apple has enabled encrypted RCS conversations between iOS and Android users via the Messages app. Released on Monday, iOS 26.5 allows end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in beta, ensuring privacy as Apple and Google won’t have access to view the messages. A lock icon and “Encrypted” label will appear at the top of a chat with an Android user on a compatible carrier when encryption is active. According to Apple’s announcement, encryption is set by default and will gradually apply to new and existing RCS conversations. Android users will need the latest Google Messages version for compatibility. Earlier this year, Apple began testing encrypted RCS chats with Android users.
iOS 26.5 also introduces new wallpapers and ads in the Maps app. Local ads may appear based on the user’s general location, search terms, or map view when searching, though Apple confirms ad data isn’t tied to Apple accounts. Besides iOS 26.5, Apple also unveiled iPadOS 26.5, macOS Tahoe 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 on Monday.