WhatsApp to Enable Messaging Across Different Apps in EU

by Kay Lee

WhatsApp and Messenger users in the European Union will soon be able to send messages to users on other messaging apps, thanks to new regulations under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The law requires major digital platforms to allow interoperability between services, meaning that users of WhatsApp will be able to exchange messages with those on apps like Telegram or Signal.

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, will gradually roll out this feature, starting with third-party chat integration and expanding to include rich messaging features such as reactions, typing indicators, and read receipts. By 2027, Meta plans to introduce support for cross-platform voice and video calls, making communication more seamless between different messaging apps.

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The Internet ProtocolKay Lee

The feature will include customization options, allowing users to choose whether to combine third-party messages with their WhatsApp chats or keep them separate in a dedicated folder. Notifications will inform users when the feature becomes available, ensuring a smooth onboarding process.

Meta’s move to comply with the DMA marks a significant step in increasing flexibility and choice for users while maintaining privacy and security through the use of Signal Protocol encryption for third-party integration.