Apple ends 'green bubble' war with secure messages for Android

The highly anticipated feature has arrived in the beta for iOS 26.5, adding a crucial layer of security. Now, when messaging an Android user, a lock icon and a small "Encrypted" message will appear to confirm the conversation is private.

Apple says that encryption will be turned on by default for everyone. It "will be automatically enabled over time for new and existing RCS conversations," the company confirmed in a statement.

For those unversed, this move addresses a long-standing issue. The lack of secure interoperability between iPhones and Android devices famously created the 'green bubble' social divide. Google has long campaigned for Apple to adopt the modern messaging standard.

This follows Apple's initial, unencrypted support for RCS which began with iOS 18 in September 2024. That earlier implementation drew considerable criticism from privacy advocates over its lack of protection.

The new feature is the result of a significant cross-industry collaboration. Apple worked with both Google and the GSMA, the body that oversees the RCS protocol, to make it happen.

However, the feature is still in its early stages and is dependent on carrier support to function. Android users will also need the newest version of Google Messages. Despite the update, the visual distinction of green bubbles for non-iMessage chats is expected to remain.