WhatsApp to Add Support for Third-Party Chat Apps
WhatsApp, the popular messaging app with over 2 billion users, is gearing up to introduce interoperability with other messaging networks. This move comes in response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) deadline set by the EU, which requires gatekeepers like WhatsApp and Messenger to allow other chat apps to utilize their services.
Dick Brouwer, an engineering director at WhatsApp, expressed the company’s readiness to offer interoperability while maintaining its privacy, security, and integrity standards. He stated, “I think we have landed pretty well.” WhatsApp aims to strike a balance between facilitating third-party interoperability and safeguarding user data.
Meta, the parent company of Messenger, also plans to support other chat apps in the future. The initial focus will be on one-on-one chats, enabling users to exchange text, audio, video, images, and files between apps. WABetaInfo, a reliable source for WhatsApp updates, revealed that a new menu item called “Third-party chats” will be introduced in the app’s inbox.
To prevent spam and scams, Brouwer mentioned that this interoperability experience would be opt-in. Users can choose whether or not they want to engage in conversations with third parties. This feature is crucial in maintaining a safe and secure environment for WhatsApp users.
In order to be compatible with Meta’s system, companies must sign an agreement whose details are yet to be disclosed. Additionally, WhatsApp will require end-to-end encryption to enable interoperability. However, there might be complexities in the terms, considering Apple’s recent announcements regarding the App Store.
Matrix’s founder, Matthew Hodgson, revealed that they have been working with WhatsApp on an experimental basis to ensure that end-to-end encryption remains intact. This collaboration highlights the importance of maintaining strong security measures while implementing interoperability.
While WhatsApp is taking steps towards third-party chat integration, it remains unclear if other operators like Telegram, Viber, and Google have similar plans. Brouwer mentioned that achieving feature parity between third-party chats and WhatsApp native chats might be challenging due to the new privacy and security concerns that arise with interoperability.
In recent months, various messaging apps have made headlines. Automattic, the owner of WordPress.com, acquired Texts.com for $50 million last October. Beeper, founded by Eric Migicovsky (the creator of Pebble smartwatches), gained attention for its attempt to bring iMessage to Android devices, although Apple ultimately shut it down.
As technology continues to evolve, WhatsApp’s decision to embrace interoperability reflects the changing landscape of messaging apps. By allowing users to connect with other networks, WhatsApp aims to enhance the user experience while prioritizing privacy and security.
