Google and Apple have started rolling out end-to-end encryption support for Rich Communication Services (RCS), improving privacy for messaging between Android and iPhone users.
The new feature is currently available in beta for users running compatible versions of iOS and Google Messages. Once enabled, messages exchanged through RCS will be protected with end-to-end encryption, preventing third parties from accessing conversations during transmission.
Google has previously offered encrypted RCS chats between Android devices, but this latest update extends the protection to cross-platform messaging between Android and iPhone users.
Encrypted chats can be identified through a lock icon within supported messaging apps. The feature is expected to expand gradually to more users and carriers over time, although an official global rollout timeline has not yet been confirmed.