Apple will, at long last, enabling end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, allowing iPhones and Android phones to text each other with the security encryption provides for the first time.

With the GSMA releasing new RCS specs, Apple pledges to 'add support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messages to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS in future software updates.'

When RCS messaging became available on the iPhone with the rollout of iOS 18, the technical director of the GSM Association teased that the next major milestone for the messaging standard is the addition of interoperable end-to-end encryption.