Apple is set to address a significant security issue in its messaging service with Android users. For years, iPhone users have been distinguished by blue bubbles in the Messages app, while Android users see green bubbles. This distinction has caused tension, primarily due to the lack of consistent security measures when communicating across platforms. However, upcoming changes in RCS (Rich Communication Services) specifications promise to bridge this gap by enabling end-to-end encrypted messaging between iPhone and Android users.
With end-to-end encryption (E2EE), only the devices involved in a conversation possess the decryption keys, ensuring that no third parties, including Apple or mobile carriers, can access the messages exchanged. Although Apple’s iMessage has employed this encryption since its inception, RCS messaging initially lacked similar security until recent updates made it possible. Apple has quickly committed to adopting the new RCS standards, which now include E2EE through the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol. This development represents a significant leap towards secure and interoperable messaging, and Apple’s support for the upgraded security measures is a positive move toward enhancing user safety.
Despite this promising update, there is currently no clear timeline for when Apple or other companies will fully implement the new RCS standard. While Apple has previously introduced RCS support in iOS 18.1, the rollout of E2EE across platforms remains uncertain. Features like typing indicators, read receipts, and the ability to send high-resolution media are now part of the RCS experience, yet the full security capabilities are still to be integrated. In summary, while the introduction of E2EE in RCS messaging will enhance security for cross-platform communication, it remains to be seen when users will gain access to these improvements through Apple’s iOS updates.