WhatsApp to release 'third-party chats' feature for iOS users

WhatsApp is launching a conversation interoperability feature, as shown in the most recent beta for iOS 24.2.10.72 in accordance with new EU rules.

This feature, called "Third-party chats," is still being developed and will be released in a future app version, according to NewsBytes.

The Digital Markets Act (DMA), which attempts to control the behaviour of large IT companies—particularly those considered "gatekeepers" with substantial sway over the digital market—is the reason for this modification.

Businesses like WhatsApp are required by the DMA to permit cross-app communication.

This implies that users of other messaging apps, like Signal, may soon be able to communicate with people on WhatsApp.

Because of interoperability, people who use other messaging apps can still send messages to WhatsApp users without having an account.

This encourages more inclusive and varied communication channels, which enhances user experience in the end.

As stated in Article 7 of the DMA regulations, users will be in charge of this interoperability feature since they will have to actively activate the service and have the option to opt-out.

Interoperable messaging systems also need to retain end-to-end encryption, which guarantees consumers engaging in cross-platform communication a high degree of security.

This ensures that when using WhatsApp's third-party chat support, users' privacy won't be compromised.

The third-party chat support feature for the iOS version of WhatsApp is currently in development at this time. Although a specific release date has not yet been mentioned, this functionality will be available in a later app update.