Google Now Allows Employers to Archive Android RCS Messages, Raising Privacy Concerns
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA - December 1, 2025 – Google has introduced a new feature enabling organizations to archive Rich Dialog Services (RCS) messages on employee-managed Android devices, sparking debate over workplace privacy. The update, available on Google Pixel and other compatible Android Enterprise devices, allows employers to archive RCS communications while still providing employees with features like typing indicators, read receipts, and end-to-end encryption between Android devices.
According to Google, the capability is designed to help organizations meet regulatory requirements. “This new capability…gives yoru employees all the benefits of RCS…while ensuring your institution meets its regulatory requirements,” google stated in a blog post.
The move comes as companies grapple with compliance in regulated industries and the increasing use of unapproved communication apps by employees – often referred to as “shadow IT.” Concerns have grown that employees are turning to platforms like WhatsApp and Signal to bypass company oversight.However, experts note this update is unlikely to resolve that issue.
Google clarified that the update does not extend to archiving content from other messaging apps like WhatsApp and signal. “This update does not change or impact the privacy of personal devices,” a Google spokesperson told reporters. “This is an optional feature for enterprise-managed work phones in regulated industries where employees are already notified that their communications are archived for compliance reasons.”
The core difference lies in how RCS and other messaging platforms are integrated into the operating system. SMS and RCS messaging are built into Android (and iOS), while over-the-top platforms control their own encryption and decryption. While databases from those platforms can be included in a general phone archive, they are not automatically subject to the new RCS archiving feature.
Previously,Google stated,employers had to fully block RCS usage to ensure compliance. This update allows organizations to support modern messaging features – including high-quality media sharing and typing indicators – while maintaining existing compliance standards applicable to SMS messaging.
Employees with work-managed Android phones should expect to receive a notification informing them that their text messages are no longer fully private.
