WhatsApp, the world-renowned messaging app, is taking significant steps to comply with the strict rules imposed by the European Union through the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA, a key initiative for the regulation of large technology companies, specifically targets "gatekeeper" companies that significantly influence the digital market. WhatsApp is mentioned as one of these key companies and, accordingly, is in the process of adapting to the new requirements.
One of the most important aspects of the DMA is the requirement that these "gatekeeper" companies allow users to communicate between various messaging applications. In this context, WhatsApp has started working on integrating support for third-party chats. A recent screenshot from the latest beta of WhatsApp for iOS 24.2.10.72 – available on TestFlight – suggests that this feature will be included in a future update for the iOS app.
This move comes in response to the DMA's demands, which aim to regulate the behavior of large technology companies. According to the term "gatekeeper", WhatsApp, having a dominant position in the messaging market, must align with these regulations. This involves introducing a new section in the app that will contain all messages received from third-party chats, an important step to comply with EU requirements.
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A major benefit of this development is the introduction of interoperability. Users will be able to communicate via WhatsApp with people using other messaging apps such as Signal. This means that a Signal user will be able to message a WhatsApp user directly, even if they don't have a WhatsApp account. Interoperability will open up more inclusive and diverse communication channels, improving user experience.
To maintain security, users will have full control over this feature, being able to activate or opt out of the interoperability service according to Article 7 of the Regulation. Moreover, end-to-end encryption is maintained in interoperable messaging systems, guaranteeing a high level of security for cross-platform communications.
In conclusion, WhatsApp is working hard to comply with EU regulations by adapting to DMA requirements by developing support for third-party chats. This change will not only ensure compliance with European regulations, but will also significantly improve the user experience by facilitating communication between different messaging platforms. Users can look forward to this innovative feature in a future update of the WhatsApp app.
