Apple is set to upgrade its messaging capabilities with the release of future iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS updates. In a significant move, the company plans to add support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messages in the Messages app.
Starting with iOS 18, users will be able to send and receive encrypted conversations using RCS Universal Profile 3.0. This feature will provide an additional layer of security and privacy for messaging.
The new features expected to arrive in iOS 19 include:
– End-to-end encryption
– In-line replies
– Edit messages
– Unsend messages
– Full-fledged Tapback support
While Apple has not confirmed which iOS version will upgrade RCS, iOS 19 is likely a safe bet. The company’s aim is to improve texting with Android users in five ways.
However, there are other implications of this move. For instance, the adoption of the RCS Universal Profile 3.0 specification may lead to more iMessage-like features being introduced in the future.
In related news, Apple has been working on various updates, including an option to set a default navigation app on the iPhone and a major design overhaul for its operating system with iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2025/03/15/ios-19-rcs-upgrades