Meta Introduces Interoperability Feature for WhatsApp in the European Union
Meta has announced the implementation of a “third-party chats” feature for WhatsApp users within the European Union (EU). This development is a direct response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates interoperability among messaging platforms. The new feature will enable WhatsApp users in the EU to communicate with individuals using compatible third-party messaging services.
The rollout of third-party chats is scheduled to occur over the coming months. Initially, users will be able to connect with users of BirdyChat and Haiket, two messaging applications that have partnered with Meta. This collaboration represents over three years of collaborative development with European messaging services and the European Commission, aimed at fulfilling the DMA’s requirements while upholding user privacy and security.
Meta has outlined the core principles guiding the implementation of this feature:
- User Security and Privacy: Third-party messaging applications must adhere to the same end-to-end encryption (E2EE) standards as WhatsApp, as mandated by the DMA.
- User Experience: Meta has prioritized a straightforward onboarding process to ensure users clearly understand the distinctions between standard WhatsApp chats and third-party chats.
- Regional Availability: The third-party chats feature will be exclusively available to users within the European Region, in compliance with the DMA.
The third-party chats functionality will be accessible to both Android and iOS users. Upon release in the European region, WhatsApp users will receive a notification within the Settings menu, providing instructions on how to opt-in to third-party chat connectivity.
After opting in, users will be able to exchange text messages, voice messages, images, videos, and files through third-party chats. It is important to note that connecting with users on other messaging platforms remains optional, and users retain the ability to activate or deactivate the third-party chats feature at their discretion.
Meta has emphasized its commitment to preserving end-to-end encryption (E2EE) and other privacy safeguards throughout the development of third-party interoperability.
