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Apple has released the first public beta of iOS 26.5 and although the update is not huge, it contains one potentially groundbreaking change. This concerns the return of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, which had previously appeared in tests but did not make it into the final version of the system. Now it seems that Apple is trying to implement it again and this time it might succeed.
Encrypted RCS messages return in beta
The most important change is the ability to enable end-to-end encryption for RCS in the messaging settings. This is a significant 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 operators, but its return suggests that Apple is seriously considering full implementation.
Smaller changes are also appearing...
Aside from RCS, the update also introduces smaller novelties, 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 of a set of minor improvements and tests rather than a major revolution, but such updates often bring features that later become standard.
It is worth remembering 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 yet certain. Stability and battery life may also be an issue, 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 the iPhone. If encryption makes it to the final version, it will be a significant step for Apple users' privacy.
source: cnet.com
