iOS 19 to introduce end-to-end encryption for RCS messages
What's the story
Apple has announced plans to add end-to-end encryption to its messaging services by supporting RCS Universal Profile 3.0 in future software updates.
The move was revealed by Shane Bauer, Apple's spokesperson.
He told The Verge that the company is leading a cross-industry effort to bring this advanced level of security to the Rich Communication Services (RCS) Universal Profile published by GSMA.
Software upgrade
RCS 3.0: Enhanced features and encryption
Apple's move to support RCS Universal Profile 3.0 would be a major upgrade from its current version, RCS 2.4.
The new profile would have all the improvements introduced in version 2.7, including message reactions and editing options, as well as the newly confirmed end-to-end encryption feature.
This transition would happen during the iOS 19 lifecycle, but Apple has not given a timeline for the software update yet.
Privacy enhancement
A significant step in messaging security
The addition of end-to-end encryption to RCS messaging marks a significant step toward privacy and security.
This new industry standard, announced by the GSM Association and built on Messaging Layer Security (MLS), will keep RCS messages confidential and secure while they are being sent between devices.
Further, SIM-based authentication will add another layer of security to these messages, protecting users from scams, frauds, etc.
Encryption adoption
RCS encryption aligns with industry trends
The move to support encrypted RCS messages is in line with a broader trend to prioritize encryption.
This comes after security advisories from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), recommending users to opt for messaging apps using encryption by default.
The new end-to-end encryption comes as part of a broader release by GSMA called RCS Universal Profile 3.0, featuring improved audio messaging support, enhanced spam detection capabilities, and better engagement with chatbots.