IPhone and Android users will soon be able to send encrypted RCS messages to each other

Text messages sent between iPhone and Android devices will soon benefit from end -to -end encryption (E2E) after the GSM association (Gsma) yesterday Published New Specifications About rich communication services (Rcs) Protocol that includes maintenance for cross -platform E2EE.

RCS is a long-standing effort to allow SMS-style cross-platform communication with richer features, such as group messages, entry indicators, reading receipts and sharing files like that provide messaging apps like WhatsApp.

While very much Made of Android Headphone Manufacturers was adopted Rcs Over the yearsApple was the main outside person until he finally succumbed to Introduction to iOS 18 last yearS Most of the main features of RCS have been available for cross-platform messages since then, but so far E2EE is missing to now.

Sales point

E2EE, for the uninitiated, is a data encryption method that guarantees only the sender and the recipient of a message can read its contents. For technology companies, this promise to preserve confidentiality is a major point of sale as it assures consumers that their messages are safe from blurring. Apple offers e2ee from it Started Imessage in 2011Although of course Call in 2016 (And again works only between whatsapp users).

Google, in turn before Added e2ee to it An app for own messagesBut it was his own endeavor, separate from the RCS protocol itself.

The encryption messages in not only different clients but also completely different platforms are available with its own unique challenges where it is on GSMA Universal profile It enters the fight, providing a standardized specification for consistent, operatively compatible RCS messages in devices, networks and operators.

Based on the security of cryptographic messages (Mls) Protocol, the new E2EE mechanism in RCS Universal Profile 3.0 is a vital piece of the operative compatible mosaic, which will ultimately allow iPhone and Android users to communicate securely through the message application of local messages on their device.

“This means that the RCS will be the first large -scale message service that supports the E2EE operational compatible between the customer’s conversions from different suppliers,” said GSMA technical director Tom Van Pelt in A A statementS “Along with other unique security features, such as SIM based authentication, E2EE will provide RCS users with the highest level of confidentiality and security for stronger protection against fraud, fraud and other threats to security and confidentiality.”