In a recent update to WhatsApp for Android beta (2.23.19.8), a new feature called “Third-party chats” was added. This test release comes after the European Commission confirmed that Meta, which owns WhatsApp, is a “gatekeeper” under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).
According to this law, messaging apps like WhatsApp have to add a function called “chat interoperability” or “messaging compatibility” that lets their users send and receive messages with users of other third-party messaging apps. This feature needs to be put in place and working by March 2024.
At the latest stage of “Third-party,” the screen is still broken, and users can’t get to it. But its name hints at a significant change: it could make Meta’s encrypted chat app work on more platforms.
The DMA wants to ensure that all people can use the digital services of big tech companies.
DMA regulations emphasize that messaging apps must interact so you can chat with friends using multiple apps. Gatekeepers must also let you delete device apps and access alternative app shops. Users have more flexibility and choice.
Meta and Microsoft are launching mobile app stores in response to the DMA. The European Commission is investigating whether Apple’s iMessage and Microsoft’s Bing, Edge, and advertising services meet the new regulations.
Google Chat, Google Meet, and Android Messages are being improved for compatibility. Telegram’s bot API has long allowed developers to link Telegram with other platforms and applications. This approach allowed varied applications to interact with Telegram.
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WhatsApp is rising among messaging apps
WhatsApp’s ability to send messages across platforms is beneficial. First, it makes the user experience much better. WhatsApp solves communication problems caused by the limitations of devices by letting people talk easily across platforms.
Convenience is another good thing about this change. Users can easily switch between their phones, tablets, and desktops without losing their chat records or essential messages. This makes it easy for a lot of people to text.
Business users are more productive with cross-platform texting. It allows professionals to communicate and operate across platforms. This allows them to discuss work while switching between mobile and desktop settings.
Backing up and syncing texts, media, and chats across platforms is another perk. This keeps critical data safe and accessible, improving data security and usability. Making personal and business messaging easy is its main benefit.
Chat apps should use cross-platform functionality to compete. WhatsApp uses various features to attract and retain customers in the congested messaging software industry.
Cross-platform messaging makes integrating other apps and services easier, making users more connected online. This makes WhatsApp much more helpful and engaging for users in their daily lives.
Other WhatsApp updates recently
WhatsApp has been updating its products often. Beta-testing screen-sharing for its video call feature in the video conferencing market. Despite competition from Microsoft Teams and Google Meet, Meta’s software seems undeterred.
A month ago, it permitted chatters to send short movies. A few security elements were added four months ago. WhatsApp has continued to grow through new improvements.
The messaging app launched WhatsApp Chat Lock to hide private discussions.
WhatsApp says Android and iPhone users can now enable chat lock. They can password-protect private conversations with the function. Device verification techniques like a phone passcode, Face ID, or fingerprint are required to access the protected chat. The app will also keep locked conversations in a folder.
The messaging app observed weeks ago that voice communications altered communication by providing a rapid and secure way to transmit voice. This is why it is integrating immediate video messages.