After more than a decade of fragmentation, iPhone and Android users may soon be able to exchange messages with end-to-end encryption as a standard feature. Apple is currently testing a latest system within the second beta of iOS 26.4 that brings encrypted messaging to conversations between its devices and Android phones, a significant step towards bolstering privacy for cross-platform communication. This move addresses long-standing security concerns surrounding SMS/MMS and iMessage interoperability.
The implementation leverages the Messaging Layer Security (MLS) protocol, standardized by the GSMA in March 2025, offering a modern and secure framework for text messaging. Currently, the feature is limited to beta testers of iOS 26.4 and Google Messages on Android, but signals a clear intent from Apple to address a critical gap in secure communication. The shift aims to ensure that message content remains private, inaccessible to Apple, Google, or mobile carriers.
The core benefit of this new system is enhanced privacy. Once fully implemented and activated by users, conversations will be protected by end-to-end encryption, indicated by a lock icon within the messaging interface. Which means that only the sender and recipient can read the messages, providing a higher level of security than traditional SMS/MMS messaging. The move is particularly relevant given increasing concerns about data privacy, and surveillance.
Although, the rollout won’t be immediate. While the beta testing phase is underway, the encrypted messaging feature will not be included in the final public release of iOS 26.4, expected in the coming weeks. Apple intends to refine the system through further testing and integration, with a planned release in a future update later this year. Full functionality will similarly require support from mobile operators, adding another layer to the deployment process.
How the New Encryption Works
The new system utilizes the MLS protocol, a modern encryption standard designed for interoperability. Unlike previous attempts at secure messaging, MLS is designed to work across different platforms and messaging apps. According to the 9to5Google report, This represents a significant step towards a more secure messaging landscape. The protocol allows for secure key exchange and message delivery, ensuring that only intended recipients can access the content.
A Long-Awaited Feature
For years, Android users have been at a disadvantage when communicating with iPhone users. Messages sent between the two platforms often fall back to SMS/MMS, which are inherently insecure. IMessage, Apple’s proprietary messaging service, offers end-to-end encryption but only when communicating between Apple devices. This disparity has been a source of frustration for many users and a point of criticism for Apple. MacRumors highlights that this move represents a major shift in Apple’s approach to cross-platform messaging.
What’s Next for Secure Messaging?
While the beta testing phase is a promising sign, several hurdles remain before widespread adoption. Operator support is crucial for ensuring seamless integration and compatibility across different networks. User awareness and adoption will be key to realizing the full benefits of the new encryption system. The timeline for full deployment remains uncertain, but Apple’s commitment to testing suggests a release sometime later in 2026 is likely.
This development marks a significant step forward in securing mobile communications. As users develop into increasingly aware of privacy concerns, the demand for end-to-end encryption will only continue to grow. Apple’s move to embrace the MLS protocol and offer encrypted messaging to Android users demonstrates a growing recognition of the importance of interoperability and user privacy.
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