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Apple has released the first public beta of iOS 26.5, and although the update isn't massive, it includes one potentially groundbreaking change. This concerns the return of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, which previously appeared in tests but didn't make it into the final version of the system. Now, it seems that Apple is trying to implement it again, and this time it may succeed.
Encrypted RCS messages return in beta
The main change is the ability to enable end-to-end encryption for RCS in the messaging settings. This is a big step, as previously RCS on iPhones did not offer the same level of protection as iMessage. The feature is still marked as beta and works only on selected devices and with specific carriers, but its return suggests that Apple is seriously considering its full rollout.
Smaller changes are also appearing...
Besides RCS, the update also introduces minor new features, such as the "Suggested Places" section in the Maps app, which suggests locations based on previous searches. As is fitting for a .5 version, this is more a set of smaller improvements and tests rather than a major revolution, but such updates often introduce features that later become standard.
It's worth noting that this is only a beta version, so features may change or even disappear before the official release. Apple has previously removed RCS encryption from the final version of the system, so nothing is certain yet. Stability and battery life may also be issues, so it's better not to install this version on your main device.
iOS 26.5 may finally fix one of the biggest shortcomings of RCS on iPhone. If encryption makes it to the final version, it will be a big step for Apple users' privacy.
source: cnet.com
