Apple has finally decided to extend a security olive branch to the infamous green bubbles. With the rollout of end-to-end encryption for RCS in the iOS 26.5 beta, the massive security gap between iPhone and Android users is finally closing. This collaboration with Google Messages means your cross-platform chats are no longer just plain text vulnerable to prying eyes; they are now fully encrypted while in transit, just like iMessage.

You’ll know your chat is safe when a new lock icon appears in the conversation, though keep in mind that carrier support is required on both ends for the magic to happen. This feature also extends to the Mac, ensuring your ecosystem remains a fortress regardless of which device you’re typing on. While some might say this was a long time coming, it’s a significant win for global privacy, proving that security should never be determined by the color of a chat bubble.