Apple finally brought RCS (Rich Communication Services) to iPhones with the release of iOS 18 in September. Currently, Apple’s implementation of the RCS protocol is only available in iMessage. While iMessage texts between iPhone users are end-to-end encrypted, that isn’t the case when we talk of RCS texts between Android and iPhone users. Now, a new report suggests that Android and Apple users are still far from getting cross-platform RCS messaging protection.
Cross-platform RCS messaging protection between Apple & Android devices is far away
The latest news comes via CNBC which reported that the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA) is working to develop end-to-end encryption between different communication platforms using RCS.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the GSMA, told the news agency, “Work with key industry stakeholders is progressing well and we look forward to updating the market in the coming months.” Although there’s indication of ongoing efforts, the GSMA didn’t provide a clear timeline for the rollout.
So, we don’t know when exactly end-to-end encryption will arrive for RCS texts between Apple and Android devices. The absence of RCS messaging protection between Apple and Android devices has been a big issue for a while now. One of the DOJ’s antitrust lawsuits against Apple highlights its failure to offer end-to-end encryption outside the iOS messaging app.
The agencies are cautious about the absence of cross-platform RCS messaging protection
The FBI and CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) recently issued a warning for Apple and Android users to stop texting each other. The officials advise citizens to use a “cell phone that responsibly manages encryption and phishing-resistant MFA for email, social media, and collaboration tool accounts.”
The advisory came following a massive telecom breach by the Chinese hacking group, Salt Typhoon. If we consider the reports, it was one of the largest hacks of the US infrastructure in history.
Technically speaking, end-to-end encryption offers great protection but isn’t immune to hackers. That said, it’s still nice to have this feature enabled by default on all messaging apps. Some of the top Android and iOS messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal offer end-to-end encryption. So, it’s best that you use them to communicate until cross-platform RCS messaging protection becomes available.
