Apple Begins Testing End to End Encrypted RCS in iOS 26.4 Beta

Apple has taken another step toward improving cross platform messaging. With the release of the iOS 26.4 developer beta, the company has started testing end to end encrypted RCS messages. While this initial phase is limited, it signals meaningful progress toward more secure communication between iPhone and Android users.

Apple previously confirmed plans to support encrypted RCS messaging, and once fully implemented, it will allow secure RCS conversations across platforms. However, the current beta only enables encryption testing between Apple devices. Cross platform encryption is not yet available, and Apple has clarified that the feature will roll out publicly in a future update rather than shipping with iOS 26.4.

Why Encrypted RCS Matters

RCS has already improved messaging between iPhone and Android users by enabling higher quality media sharing, read receipts, typing indicators, and better group chats. Still, one major piece has been missing: cross platform encryption.

End to end encryption ensures that only the sender and recipient can read messages. Without it, conversations are more vulnerable to interception. The GSM Association, which develops the RCS Universal Profile, announced in 2024 that encrypted RCS messaging was a major milestone for the platform’s future. Apple later confirmed it would support encrypted RCS across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS in future software updates.

The testing phase in iOS 26.4 shows that Apple is actively working toward that goal, even if the complete rollout will take more time.

What Else Is New in iOS 26.4

Alongside RCS encryption testing, the first iOS 26.4 developer beta introduces a seamless switching feature between audio and video podcasts. This small but thoughtful update reflects Apple’s continued effort to refine user experience across its ecosystem.

While the encryption feature may not be fully usable yet, its presence in the beta builds anticipation for a more secure cross platform messaging future.

Messaging Security Is Only Part of the Picture

As messaging becomes more secure, users also need reliable ways to handle contacts files transfer and manage personal data across devices. Switching between iPhone and Android is still common, especially as RCS reduces the communication gap between platforms. But secure messaging alone does not solve the challenge of moving important content from one device to another.

This is where Smart Transfer becomes relevant. Smart Transfer is a third party app designed for WiFi files sharing, allowing users to transfer photos, videos, contacts, and documents directly between devices. Whether you are transitioning from Android to iPhone or upgrading within the Apple ecosystem, it simplifies contacts files transfer without depending entirely on cloud storage.

As encrypted RCS strengthens conversation privacy, tools that support WiFi files sharing ensure your data migration remains just as secure and efficient. Together, these technologies highlight a broader movement toward greater control, flexibility, and protection in today’s connected mobile experience.

What to Expect Next

Apple has made it clear that encrypted RCS messaging will not officially launch with iOS 26.4. Instead, it will arrive in a future software update once development and cross platform compatibility are complete.

When that happens, the gap between green and blue bubbles will shrink further, not just in features but in security. For users who message across platforms daily, that change could be one of the most meaningful upgrades in recent years.