Apple has rolled out the iOS 26.5 Release Candidate to developers and public testers, and it hints at a major upgrade for messaging security. As reported by MacRumors, the RC version confirms that end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging (in beta) is coming to conversations between iPhone and Android users through the Messages app. Since this is a near-final build, the same feature is expected to arrive in the stable release as early as next week.

The biggest highlight is the introduction of end-to-end encryption for RCS chats. This security layer ensures that messages exchanged between supported iOS and Android devices remain protected during transit, preventing any third party from reading or intercepting them. The feature is enabled by default, can be managed via Settings, and encrypted chats are marked with a small lock icon. However, it will only work when both sender and receiver are on carriers that support the updated RCS standard, and rollout will be gradual.

Alongside messaging improvements, iOS 26.5 also brings updates to Apple Maps, introducing a “Suggested Places” section where local businesses may appear as promoted listings. These placements will be based on relevance, user activity, and nearby trends, with clear labeling and privacy protections to ensure user data is not tied to individual identities.

The update also includes a new Pride-themed wallpaper for iPhone users, featuring a colorful animated design that celebrates LGBTQ+ communities with customizable visual elements. Apple has confirmed that iOS 26.5 will be available for a wide range of devices, including the latest iPhone 17 series, iPhone 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 lineup, and iPhone SE (2nd generation and later).