In response to European regulatory requirements, WhatsApp reveals how its new third-party chat integration option works. This feature promises improved interoperability between different messaging platforms, giving European users more control and flexibility in their communications.
Since September 2023, WhatsApp initiated significant changes to comply with the Digital Market Act (DMA) of the European Union, by testing a new section dedicated to “third-party conversations” on Android. This development, aimed at ensuring interoperability between different messaging platforms, marks a turning point in the way users interact within the European digital ecosystem. In January, this feature was extended to iPhone users, confirming the app’s commitment to creating a platform for more open communication and interconnected, while preserving the possibility for users to activate or deactivate this option according to their preferences.
Recently, the director of application engineering clarified in an interview that interoperability would not be enabled by default, thus offering users the freedom to choose applications with whom they wish to communicate. This measure aims to protect users from spam and potential scams, while allowing them to benefit fromenriched messaging. With the imminent arrival of this feature, WhatsApp takes an important step towards integration of third-party conversationswhile respecting the security and confidentiality requirements of its users.
WhatsApp reveals how its new new option mandated by Europe works
For European users, the introduction of third-party chats by WhatsApp represents a major advance, complies with regulatory requirements of the European Union in terms of competition and interoperability of digital services. This functionality, specifically deployed in our region, demonstrates the adaptation of technological giants to local legislative frameworks, thus offering Europeans expanded messaging and compliant with consumer protection standards and privacy established by the EU.
According to information revealed by WABetaInfo in WhatsApp version 2.24.6.2 for Android, the platform introduces the possibility for users to choose specifically authorized third-party applications to interact with their account. This feature gives users the control to avoid spam and potential risks linked to certain less secure platforms. The ability to filter and to selectively activate third-party platform chats offer users increased control over their interactions, ensuring better protection of their privacy.
Source: wabetainfo