Apple has launched end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging for iPhone users in beta as part of iOS 26.5, which was released on Monday. This feature allows encrypted conversations with Android users through the Messages app. Apple and Google cannot access messages sent using this feature.

Users will see a lock icon and an "Encrypted" message at the top of the chat when having an encrypted conversation with an Android user on a carrier that supports the feature. Encryption will be enabled by default for new and existing RCS conversations, according to Apple.

Android users will also need to be using the newest version of Google Messages to utilize this feature. Apple began testing encrypted RCS chats with Android users earlier this year.

iOS 26.5 also includes new wallpapers and the addition of ads in Maps. Ads in Maps may show local ads based on approximate location and search terms. Advertising information is not linked to the user's Apple account, according to Apple.

In addition to iOS 26.5, Apple released iPadOS 26.5, macOS Tahoe 26.5, watchOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 on Monday.

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