Apple released a developer beta of iOS and iPadOS 26.4 with the first support for end-to-end encryption in Rich Communication Services messages, marking a critical step toward securing cross-platform messaging.
“End-to-end encryption is in beta and is not available for all devices or carriers,” Apple cautioned in its release notes. “Conversations labeled as encrypted are encrypted end-to-end, so messages can’t be read while they’re sent between devices.” The initial beta limited encryption to conversations between Apple devices, with cross-platform Android support added in the second beta.
The beta also introduced Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE) for enhanced memory safety protection and enabled Stolen Device Protection by default — adding Face ID or Touch ID requirements for sensitive actions and a one-hour delay for Apple Account password changes away from trusted locations.
