Apple's Next iOS Update to Bring Encrypted Messaging to iMessage's RCS Integration

Apple has begun testing a significant security upgrade for its messaging system. The latest developer beta for iOS and iPadOS 26.4 introduces end-to-end encryption for messages sent via the RCS standard, a move that will eventually secure texts between Apple devices when the feature rolls out publicly.

Currently in limited beta, the encryption will apply only to conversations between iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, not extending to exchanges with Android users. The development follows an industry-wide push by the GSMA, which oversees the RCS protocol, to adopt the stronger Messaging Layer Security (MLS) framework for protection.

Separately, the beta expands a key security tool called Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE). Apps can now fully activate this defense, which Apple designed to block advanced spyware attacks without slowing down the device. It was created to protect core system functions from exploitation.

In related news, the upcoming public release of iOS 26.4 is also expected to turn on Stolen Device Protection by default. This feature, which requires biometric verification for sensitive actions when a phone is away from trusted locations, will become standard for all users. It includes a one-hour security delay for changing an Apple account password, giving victims of theft a crucial window to report their missing device.