Apple and Google Test End-to-End Encryption for RCS in iOS 26.4 Beta

Apple and Google are taking a major step toward improving cross-platform messaging security. With the second beta of iOS 26.4, both companies have begun testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS messages exchanged between iPhone and Android users.

This move could finally close one of the biggest security gaps in modern messaging.

What’s Changing in iOS 26.4 Beta 2?

In the first beta of iOS 26.4, Apple introduced limited RCS encryption testing, but it only worked between iPhones with iMessage turned off. Now, in beta 2, encrypted RCS conversations can take place between iPhone and Android users.

To participate in testing:

• iPhone users must install the second beta of iOS 26.4

• Android users must run the latest version of Google Messages

However, Apple has clarified that this encryption feature will not officially launch with iOS 26.4. Instead, it will roll out in a future update across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS 26 versions.

Why End-to-End Encryption Matters

End-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and recipient can read a message. No third party, including service providers, can access its contents while it is transmitted.

Apple’s iMessage has supported E2EE for years, while Google already offers encrypted RCS messaging between Android devices. The missing piece has been full encryption between iPhone and Android users.

By working with the GSM Association to standardize encryption for RCS, Apple and Google are moving toward a more secure messaging experience across platforms.

During this beta phase, encrypted conversations will be clearly labeled. It is important to note that E2EE testing is not available for all devices or carriers yet.

A Step Toward Messaging Equality

For years, cross-platform conversations have lacked the same level of protection as iMessage or Android-to-Android chats. This update signals a broader industry shift toward unified security standards.

Although still in beta, the development shows strong collaboration between two major competitors for the sake of user privacy.

Secure Communication Goes Beyond Messages

As digital communication becomes more secure, users are also paying closer attention to how they move and manage their personal files.

While RCS encryption protects your conversations, transferring photos, videos, and documents between devices requires equally reliable tools. That is where Smart Transfer becomes relevant. As a third-party file sharing solution, Smart Transfer supports fast share functionality, allowing users to move files between devices efficiently. It also emphasizes easy file sharing, helping users transfer data securely without complicated steps.

Whether you are switching between iPhone and Android or simply moving files to a new device, having dependable sharing tools complements the growing focus on privacy in messaging.

What Happens Next?

Although RCS end-to-end encryption will not ship with iOS 26.4, its inclusion in beta testing suggests a broader rollout is coming soon. Once fully implemented, cross-platform messaging between iPhone and Android could finally offer the same level of protection users expect from modern communication apps.

For now, the beta represents progress toward a more secure and unified messaging future.