Apple is testing end-to-end encryption for Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging in the first beta of iOS 26.4, a move that could significantly enhance the security of cross-platform text communication between iPhones and Android devices. The update, released Monday, also introduces video streaming capabilities to the Apple Podcasts app and expands features within Apple Music.
The RCS encryption testing is currently limited to iPhone-to-iPhone communication when iMessage is disabled, according to Apple. Users participating in the beta program will witness a lock icon appear in RCS chats, mirroring the existing indicator for iMessage encryption. Apple has been collaborating with the GSM Association to implement the encryption, a necessary step to achieve full end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, as outlined in RCS Universal Profile 3.0.
Currently, iMessage already provides end-to-end encryption for messages between Apple devices, and RCS messages between Android phones also feature encryption. However, a secure channel has been lacking when iPhones and Android devices communicate via RCS. The addition of E2EE for RCS aims to bridge this gap, bringing the security level of cross-platform messaging in line with iMessage.
Alongside the security enhancements, iOS 26.4 introduces video streaming to the Apple Podcasts app. Users can now seamlessly switch between audio and video playback within the app by tapping the screen, with video quality automatically adjusting based on internet connection speed. This feature positions Apple Podcasts as a more direct competitor to platforms like Spotify and YouTube, and is intended to attract and retain content creators within the Apple ecosystem. The update also introduces dynamic video advertising options for podcasters.
Apple Music is also receiving updates, including a new “Playlist Playground” feature that allows users to generate playlists automatically through text prompts, such as “Music for morning coffee” or “70s disco hits.” A “Concerts Near You” section will provide information on local live music events. Visually, album and playlist pages have been redesigned with larger artwork.
Apple is also bolstering security features beyond RCS encryption. The “Stolen Device Protection” feature, designed to prevent unauthorized access to iPhones, will now be enabled by default in iOS 26.4. The update also prevents users from accidentally disabling this protection, further hindering access for potential thieves.
However, the highly anticipated, AI-powered version of Siri remains absent from the iOS 26.4 beta. Sources indicate that Apple is facing stability issues with the new Siri implementation, potentially delaying its release until iOS 26.5 or even the fall of 2026. Beta testers will see improvements to the wallpaper gallery and smoother animations.
The final version of iOS 26.4 is expected to be released in late March or early April. Developers with registered accounts currently have access to build 23E5207q, with a public beta release anticipated in the coming days.
