It has been less than a year since Apple introduced the ability for iPhones to send messages to Android devices without restrictions, and now, end-to-end encryption is finally being implemented. Although it’s late, it’s a welcome development. The GSM Association has announced new specifications for RCS that require end-to-end encryption (E2EE) based on the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol. The organization outlined its plan in a press release, citing the need to provide users with the highest level of privacy and security.

The new specifications will utilize RCS Universal Profile 3.0, a cross-platform encryption protocol that facilitates easier identification between iPhones and Android devices. This profile enables richer deep linking, improved audio codec for voice messaging, and easier unsubscribing from subscription text threads. The protocol will continue to support advanced messaging capabilities, including tap-backs, read receipts, typing indicators, group messaging, and high-quality photo sharing.

Apple has confirmed its support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging and plans to extend it to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS through future software updates. According to Apple spokesperson Shane Bauer, who spoke with The Verge, “End-to-end encryption is a powerful privacy and security technology that iMessage has supported from the beginning, and now we are pleased to have helped lead a cross-industry effort to bring end-to-end encryption to the RCS Universal Profile published by the GSMA.” On Google’s side, Android users already have E2EE enabled by default for RCS texts.

So, what does this mean? Messages sent to Android users will no longer be stored on Apple’s servers before being delivered. Instead, they will be encrypted and sent directly to their destination. However, to ensure maximum security, it’s essential to enable Advanced Data Protection for iCloud backups, which encrypts all backed-up data. Although Apple may not intentionally access your conversations, enabling this feature provides an additional layer of protection, particularly in cases where you may be subpoenaed.