Google Messages removes no encryption icon from iPhone RCS chats
What does E2EE stand for in messaging?
E2EE stands for End-to-End Encryption in messaging. It is a secure communication process that prevents third parties from accessing data transferred from one endpoint to another5. Only the intended sender and receiver can decrypt and read the message, ensuring privacy and data security.
Why did Google remove the lock icon from RCS chats?
Google removed the lock icon from RCS chats because it no longer shows that end-to-end encryption (E2EE) isn't available in iPhone RCS conversations. This change reflects the status quo that exists with SMS today, and there's no point noting the lack of encryption in Android-iOS chats as there's nothing end users can do right now to get it.
What is the RCS Universal Profile standard?
The RCS Universal Profile standard is a globally agreed-upon specification for implementing Rich Communication Services (RCS), designed to replace traditional SMS and MMS messaging protocols26. Developed by the GSM Association (GSMA), it allows subscribers of different carriers and nations to communicate with each other, offering advanced features such as read receipts, typing indicators, group chats, and high-resolution media sharing12.