Apple is set to introduce significant updates to its Messages app with the upcoming release of iOS 26. Key features include the ability to filter texts by draft status, making it easier for users to locate unfinished messages. Additionally, the new version may enhance security for messages sent between iPhones and Android devices through end-to-end encryption for RCS (Rich Communication Services).
A common frustration for users of the Messages app is the challenge of recalling draft messages left unfinished. With iOS 26, users participating in the public beta can now utilize a dedicated Drafts filter. To access this feature, users can open the Messages app, tap the menu icon in the top-right corner, and select Drafts under the Filter By heading. This streamlines the process of finding unfinished texts without the need to navigate through numerous conversation threads.
The update also introduces additional filters for managing messages, including a Send Later option for scheduled messages and an Unread filter for messages that have yet to be opened. It is important to note that these filters will only appear if relevant messages are present, ensuring a tailored experience for users.
Boosting Security for RCS Messaging
In parallel to these usability enhancements, iOS 26 may also address long-standing security concerns with RCS messages. According to findings from Android Authority, Apple is reportedly testing end-to-end encryption for RCS messages sent between iOS and Android devices. This follows the GSM Association (GSMA) announcement in March 2025, which stated that RCS would be equipped with stronger encryption.
Currently, RCS messaging lacks the end-to-end encryption that iMessage users have enjoyed for years. Although users can send RCS messages across platforms since the introduction of the feature in iOS 18, the absence of robust encryption has raised concerns regarding the security of these communications.
The presence of code strings such as GisRCSEncryptionEnabled and mls-rcs-server in the iOS 26 coding suggests that Apple is actively exploring these enhancements. Although there is no definitive confirmation that RCS encryption will be part of the final release, these developments indicate a promising direction towards improved security for cross-platform messaging.
While Apple has historically been cautious in adopting RCS due to its security vulnerabilities compared to iMessage, the potential for added encryption could enhance user confidence in using RCS for communication between iOS and Android devices.
As Apple prepares for the official launch of iOS 26, users can look forward to a more user-friendly Messages app along with the hope of a more secure messaging experience.
