New Delhi: Apple has officially released its iOS 26.5 in Release Candidate preview for the developers and public testers. In the iOS 26.5 RC build, Apple has officially confirmed that the arrival of end-to-end encryption RCS messaging when chatting with Android users through the Messages application.
This is an RC build; the stable upgrade retaining the same feature might be released next week. End-to-end encryption in RCS will add a security protection layer in messages exchanged between compatible iOS 26.5 and Android devices.
The messages will be secured in transit, preventing any third party from accessing or reading them while they are being delivered. This feature is allowed by default and can be managed via a toggle in the Messages section within the settings.
Encrypted chats are marked with the small lock icon. End-to-end encryption RCS messages will be experimented with in beta with iOS 26.5. Its availability will depend on the supported carriers and will go on to extend gradually, with encryption, working only when both the sender and receiver are on networks that will support the latest RCS standard.
This latest upgrade also brings the most-anticipated suggested places section in Apple Maps, where localized ads can appear. Businesses will be able to promote listings within the search results and at the top of this section, with placements determined by relevance, user activity, and nearby trends.
These ads will be clearly labeled and designed with privacy safeguards by ensuring that user location data and ad interactions are not linked to individual Apple accounts.
iOS 26.5 will bring Pride-dedicated iPhone wallpaper, which Apple stated has a vibrant, celebratory design honoring LGBTQ+ communities during Pride Month and beyond, with a dynamic layout and customizable colors.
