Apple releases iOS 26.5 with beta support for encrypted RCS messaging
iOS, macOS, and iPadOS 26.5 introduce end-to-end encryption for RCS chats on select carriers, alongside Pride-themed wallpapers and groundwork for Apple Maps advertising.
Apple has released version 26.5 of its operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and HomePod software. The update introduces beta support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, limited to a subset of supported cellular carriers, alongside new Pride-themed wallpapers and initial work for ads in Apple Maps.
This release marks a significant security milestone by bridging the historical gap where cross-platform chats between iPhone and Android users lacked encryption. The feature allows users to conduct encrypted conversations via the Messages app, provided the Android device is running the latest Google Messages app and is supported by a compatible carrier.
Visually, encrypted conversations are identified by a padlock icon and an "Encrypted" label within the Messages app. Apple notes that if a padlock is not visible, the message is not encrypted, even if the RCS protocol is being used. The feature is currently available only in beta mode, with expanded support expected to roll out over time to additional carriers.
Beyond the messaging security improvements, the update includes new Pride-themed wallpapers for supported devices. Additionally, the release contains the initial groundwork required to support advertising within the Apple Maps application, a feature that will be fully realised in future software cycles.
The company is also testing changes to third-party wearable support in the EU to comply with local regulations, though these specific features have not yet been included in the public versions of the iOS updates. These releases are anticipated to be the final major updates for these operating system versions before the next generation is unveiled at WWDC next month.
While the 26.5 update focuses on security and minor platform adjustments, the industry remains focused on the upcoming iOS 27 cycle. Recent reporting suggests that users may be able to choose specific AI models for Apple Intelligence's writing and image-generation tools in the next release, following earlier announcements regarding the integration of Google's Gemini language models for Siri.
