Meta will give some European WhatsApp users a new, optional feature called “third-party chats” that lets them message people on other apps without leaving WhatsApp. The company tested the feature on a small scale and will start with partners BirdyChat and Haiket.
Users who choose to opt in can send text, photos, voice notes, videos and files to contacts on those partner apps. Meta says group chats with third-party users will follow once its partners have the needed support.
The move responds to the EU’s Digital Markets Act. Meta worked with the European Commission and regional messaging services to build a compliant solution. Security is a priority: partner apps must offer end-to-end encryption that matches WhatsApp’s level. Meta prefers the Signal Protocol but will accept any protocol that delivers equivalent protection.
There are important limits to note. If you block someone on WhatsApp, that person might still reach you through enabled third-party services. Meta also warns of higher risks of spam and scams when using third-party apps, and it reminds users that those apps have their own privacy and data rules.
Meta says setup will be clear and simple. The feature is optional and can be turned off at any time. European WhatsApp users will soon see a notification in Settings explaining how to enable or disable “third-party chats.”
Why link messengers? Isnt the whole point to keep them separate? Lets keep things simple and clutter-free!
Why bother linking messengers? Keep them separate for different purposes. No need for a messy mix-up. Lets keep it simple!
I think this new feature could either revolutionize communication or lead to a confusing mess of notifications. What do you all think?
I wonder if this will lead to more chaos or convenience in our messaging lives. Exciting times ahead!
I wonder if this cross-messaging feature will lead to more chaotic group chats or actually make communication easier. Excited to find out!