Meta has announced a major update for WhatsApp e Messenger, that soon will become interoperable with other messaging apps. This innovation, required by the EU Digital Markets Act, will allow users to communicate with anyone, regardless of the app they use, as long as they share the same cryptographic protocol. Today, the company showed how this will be concretely possible for users.
WhatsApp and Messenger interoperable with other apps: here's how
The interoperability will allow WhatsApp and Messenger users to send and receive messages and files from users of other apps, as long as they use the same encryption protocol used by Signal. Users will be able to choose whether to view messages in a unified list or in a separate tab within the app, just like with email services.
Additionally, there will be a number of advanced features, such as message reactions, typing indicators, and read receipts, which will enrich the communication experience. Users will receive a notification when a new messaging app becomes interoperable with WhatsApp and Messenger.
While Meta has not yet provided a specific timeline for when interoperability will be enabled, it has outlined a clear path forward. By 2025 this feature will also be extended to groups, allowing people using different apps to communicate within the same virtual space. By 2027, interoperability will also include voice and video calls.
Interoperability between messaging apps is a significant step towards more seamless and inclusive communication. As we venture into this new territory, it is critical that we consider both the opportunities and challenges that come with it, while ensuring protection of privacy and security of users as desired by Europe.
"We will continue to work with third-party messaging services to provide the best and safest experience. Users will start to see the third-party chat option once a third-party messaging service has built, tested, and launched the technology needed to make the feature a positive and safe user experience." Meta said.
