GSMA context: The GSMA highlights broader enhancements to messaging as part of the Universal Profile evolution, including video, rich text, and payments integration.

End‑to‑end encryption in iMessage/Android chats: Apple is testing RCS end-to-end encryption (RCS Universal Profile versions 3.0 and 3.1), with version 4.0 expected to finalize in the coming months.

RCS 4.0 brings native video calls within messaging apps, richer text (bold and italics), higher quality media, and a more expressive messaging experience.

Rich Cards and business messaging: Embedded Rich Cards will enable quick actions like restaurant menus, with more complex actions such as payments routed to dedicated apps.

Intro: iOS 26.5 is expected to bring a major messaging upgrade with end-to-end encryption for iPhone–Android messages, along with a suite of enhancements.

Source attribution: Reporting references Forbes summaries and GSMA announcements on RCS upgrades and their implications.

Video calls and media improvements: Anticipate video streaming, higher‑quality media, and an enhanced business messaging experience leveraging Rich Cards.

Release timeline: iOS 26.5 developer and public betas are underway, with a consumer release likely around May 11, 2026, and potential alternatives later that week or by May 18, 2026.