Meta Integrates Third-Party Chats in WhatsApp, Messenger for EU Compliance

On Friday, Meta Platforms Inc. shared a significant update regarding its compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), particularly emphasizing the interoperability between its messaging services—WhatsApp and Messenger—and various third-party messaging applications.

Key Developments

Interoperability Compliance: In alignment with the DMA, Meta has successfully integrated third-party chat functionalities into WhatsApp and Messenger for users in Europe. This enhancement enables users to connect seamlessly with individuals utilizing other interoperable messaging platforms.

User Experience Enhancements: To further enrich the user experience, Meta has rolled out notifications within WhatsApp and Messenger, alerting users to the availability of third-party chat options. Additionally, a streamlined onboarding process has been developed, allowing users to select and manage their preferred third-party apps, with the flexibility to either separate or combine chats from different platforms.

Rich Features and Future Expansions: Going beyond the fundamental requirements of interoperability, Meta has incorporated advanced messaging features such as reactions, direct replies, typing indicators, and read receipts. Looking ahead, the company plans to introduce group chat functionalities by 2025 and voice/video calling capabilities by 2027.

Challenges and Continued Development

Meta recognizes the technical challenges that arise in ensuring privacy and security within third-party chats. The company has underscored that upholding these standards is a collaborative effort between Meta and the third-party services that opt for interoperability. This initiative marks a transformative shift in the operational landscape of messaging platforms within the EU, aligning with regulatory demands while striving to deliver a seamless and secure user experience. Nevertheless, the ambitious timeline and gradual feature rollout indicate that achieving full interoperability may take several years.

Meta Price Action: Following the announcement, Meta Platforms shares experienced a decline of 3.21%, closing at 0.27, as reported by Benzinga Pro.

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Photo Credits: Mamun Sheikh K / Shutterstock.com

What is WhatsApp Messenger and how does it work?

WhatsApp Messenger is a free, cross-platform messaging application that allows users to send text messages, voice messages, make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, user locations, and other content. It works using the internet to send messages and calls, which means it requires a data connection. Users can communicate with anyone who has the app, using their phone's contact list to find others also using WhatsApp.

What is the parent company for Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram?

The parent company for Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram is Meta Platforms, Inc., formerly known as Facebook, Inc. Meta is a major technology conglomerate that focuses on building technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. The company's name change to Meta reflects its shifting focus towards building the metaverse, a collective virtual shared space.