Google Messages to Transition to Standard E2EE for Encrypted Interoperability with iOS RCS Messages

In a significant development, Apple has integrated Rich Communication Services (RCS) support in iOS 18, allowing for enhanced messaging capabilities. Recent tests have demonstrated that the Google Messages app on Android can now exchange RCS messages with iOS 18 devices, enabling the sharing of text and rich media content. However, a notable concern has been the lack of standard End-to-End Encryption (E2EE) in Google Messages, posing risks of interception and theft when messages are sent to iOS 18 devices.

Previously, Apple's lack of support for RCS messages meant Google did not have to address this encryption issue, as messages within the Android ecosystem were secured with their proprietary encryption methods. The landscape has changed with Apple's adoption of RCS, prompting a pivotal shift in Google's approach to message security.

Google plans to adopt the Message Layer Security (MLS) protocol, a cutting-edge encryption standard developed by the Internet Engineering Task Task Force (IETF). This protocol not only facilitates E2EE for individual messages but also addresses the complexities of encrypting group messages. As a standard protocol from IETF, MLS will enable encrypted communication between Android and iPhone devices, ensuring cross-platform message security.

Analysis by Android Authority of the Google Messages app's installation package reveals ongoing tests for MLS protocol support. However, these are still in the early stages without visible functionalities, indicating that official support may take some time to materialize.

While it remains unclear if Apple's implementation of the RCS protocol in iOS 18 includes support for MLS, it is confirmed that Apple supports E2EE. The successful integration of MLS, therefore, may require collaboration between Apple and Google to ensure encrypted interoperability across both ecosystems, marking a significant step forward in securing cross-platform communication.