Apple is moving closer to enabling fully encrypted Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging between iPhone and Android devices, following the release of the RCS Universal Profile 3.0 by the GSM Association nearly a year ago.
The updated standard introduces an industry-wide end-to-end encryption (E2EE) framework, addressing a major limitation that previously prevented Apple from supporting encrypted RCS chats.
Until now, RCS encryption was largely tied to Google’s proprietary implementation. As a result, when Apple adopted RCS support with iOS 18, it did not include encryption for cross-platform messaging. With Universal Profile 3.0 establishing a common standard, Apple has begun work to bring encrypted RCS to its ecosystem.
Signs of progress have recently appeared in iOS 26.3 Beta 2, where code related to RCS encryption support has been discovered. While the beta does not yet confirm that encrypted RCS messaging is fully functional, it includes user interface elements that display encryption status and allow users to manage related settings. This suggests Apple is laying the groundwork for full implementation.
At this stage, it remains unclear when end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging will officially roll out. It could arrive with the stable release of iOS 26.3, or Apple may delay it until iOS 27. The company has not shared an official timeline or public statement regarding support for Universal Profile 3.0.
Once enabled, RCS encryption will secure not only text messages but also shared media and files, including photos and videos. Importantly, E2EE will also extend to group chats, bringing cross-platform conversations closer to the privacy standards users expect from modern messaging apps.
Beyond encryption, Universal Profile 3.0 introduces several quality-of-life improvements. These include inline replies, the ability to edit or unsend messages within a limited window, and proper Tapback emoji reactions, which currently work in a limited and inconsistent way between platforms.
Looking ahead, the GSM Association has already released Universal Profile 3.1, adding support for the xHE-AAC audio codec, spam reporting tools, enhanced file transfer security, and improved reliability on weak network connections.
With Apple now actively testing RCS encryption features, seamless and secure messaging between iPhone and Android users appears closer than ever.