The future of secure mobile messaging just took a significant leap forward. The GSM Association announced plans to implement end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for messages exchanged between Android and iOS devices using the Rich Communications Services (RCS) protocol.
“This monumental step will introduce robust user protection measures into the RCS Universal Profile, notably interoperable end-to-end encryption,” stated Tom Van Pelt, GSMA’s technical director. “It will mark the first time standardized messaging encryption is deployed between different platforms, overcoming key federation and group membership challenges.”
The introduction of RCS support in Apple’s iOS 18 further solidifies the commitment to secure messaging. This update brings advanced features like message reactions, typing indications, and high-quality media sharing. Despite RCS not natively supporting end-to-end encryption, Google implemented the Signal protocol to secure conversations on Android devices.
Apple had previously announced plans to collaborate with GSMA to implement encryption, complementing its already E2EE-enabled iMessage service.
“We are excited to work with the mobile industry to enhance the RCS standard with universal end-to-end encryption, ensuring the privacy and security of all RCS messages,” added Van Pelt.
Looking ahead, Google aims to integrate the Message Layer Security (MLS) protocol into its Android Messages app to foster messaging service interoperability and encryption across platforms.
In a separate development, Meta outlined its strategy to enable interoperability with third-party messaging services on WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, aligning with the E.U. Digital Markets Act (DMA) guidelines while upholding E2EE commitments.
“Building secure third-party chats poses technical challenges; privacy and security remain top priorities,” remarked the social media giant. “We have made significant progress, but there’s more work ahead.”