For European users, the days of managing multiple messaging apps may soon be a thing of the past. WhatsApp is introducing a beta feature that allows users to send and receive messages from other messaging platforms, with BirdyChat being the first to join this initiative. This development is a direct response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates that major platforms like WhatsApp must collaborate with competing services to continue their operations within the region.
What you can do with third-party messaging
Once activated, this feature enables users to exchange messages, images, videos, and voice notes securely with contacts on different messaging apps. However, it’s important to note that some of WhatsApp’s advanced functionalities, such as status updates, stickers, and disappearing messages, will not be available in these cross-platform conversations.
WhatsApp has designed a distinct experience for third-party chats, placing them in a dedicated section at the top of the inbox. This clear separation helps users easily identify when they are communicating with someone from a different platform. For those who prefer a consolidated view, there is an option to merge all messages into a single inbox.
The feature is set to be opt-in by default, ensuring that users maintain control over their communication preferences. No one can reach out from other apps unless the user explicitly enables this functionality. Additionally, users can manage which specific third-party applications are permitted to communicate through WhatsApp, providing an added layer of control over their interactions.
Which apps are supported
At the moment, BirdyChat is the only app compatible with this new feature. WhatsApp does not dictate which applications to integrate; instead, third-party developers must adhere to stringent security and encryption standards before submitting their integration requests. Only those apps that meet WhatsApp’s rigorous security criteria will be approved for this feature.
In the coming months, it is anticipated that other popular messaging apps like Signal, Telegram, and Messenger will join the fold as they adapt to the DMA requirements. The EU has previously mandated that iMessage and WhatsApp collaborate with smaller messaging services, paving the way for this significant rollout.
Currently, this feature is limited to a beta rollout within EU regions, with no immediate plans for expansion outside Europe. As reported by WABetaInfo, the broader availability of this functionality will hinge on the successful navigation of technical challenges by WhatsApp and third-party apps, all while ensuring the preservation of end-to-end encryption across platforms.
