Apple is once again working on improving messaging privacy, this time by bringing back end to end encrypted RCS chats in its latest iOS testing phase.
The feature had briefly appeared in the iOS 26.4 beta, but Apple made it clear at the time that it would not be released immediately and would instead arrive in a future update.
Now, with the release of the first iOS 26.5 developer beta, encrypted RCS messaging has returned. According to reports from 9to5Mac, the feature is being tested again, which signals that Apple is getting closer to a public rollout.
RCS, or Rich Communication Services, is meant to replace traditional SMS with better features like improved media sharing, typing indicators, and read receipts. However, one major missing piece has been strong encryption, especially when compared to services like iMessage and WhatsApp.
By testing end to end encryption for RCS, Apple is taking a step toward making cross platform messaging more secure. This could improve privacy for conversations between iPhone and Android users, something that has long been a concern.
There is still no official confirmation on when the feature will be available to everyone, but its return in the latest beta suggests that Apple may release it soon in a future iOS update. For now, developers are getting an early look as Apple continues to refine the experience.
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