Meta is introducing changes to WhatsApp and Messenger for interoperability with third-party chat apps in Europe, sharing details in a recent post. Following previous reports, Meta began working on this feature last year after the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the EU. Under the DMA, major companies must enable interoperability with third parties and cannot prioritize their own services. Meta sought feedback from potential partners to shape the new user experience, including implementing notifications for users to choose which third-party apps they receive messages from and how they are displayed. These apps will offer rich messaging features like reactions, direct replies, typing indicators, and read receipts. Group chat capabilities will be introduced next year, with voice and video calling available on other apps by 2027. Meta clarified that users will only see third-party chat options when those services have integrated the necessary technology for a positive and secure experience. While not all messaging apps will be integrated with WhatsApp and Messenger, Meta plans to continue collaborating with other services to expand availability.
