WhatsApp Expands Messaging Options with Third-Party Chat Integration, Initially for EU Users
Brussels, Belgium - WhatsApp has launched a new feature enabling users to communicate directly with individuals on other messaging platforms-Birdychat and Haiket-without leaving the WhatsApp interface. The rollout, currently limited to users in the European Union, marks a significant shift in WhatsApp’s traditionally walled-garden approach to messaging.
The integration addresses growing calls for interoperability between messaging apps, offering a more seamless interaction experience for users who haven’t adopted WhatsApp as their primary platform. While initially supporting only two services, WhatsApp states further integrations are possible, contingent on compatibility and approval from other messaging app developers. Notably,privacy-focused services Signal and Threema have opted out of the feature due to data protection concerns.
Currently available on both Android and iPhone,the new functionality allows users to continue conversations across different platforms. However, certain features common in WhatsApp chats, such as stickers and status updates, are not supported within these third-party integrations. Users can choose to integrate these chats directly into their main whatsapp inbox or keep them separate.
WhatsApp emphasizes that all chats remain end-to-end encrypted, but acknowledges that third-party services will operate under their own privacy policies. Users should be aware that their phone number may be visible to contacts on these other platforms, though WhatsApp asserts no further data will be shared. A potential security consideration is that blocked users may still be able to initiate contact through these third-party channels.
The availability is determined by the country associated with the user’s phone number registered with WhatsApp. The launch comes amid increasing regulatory pressure for messaging apps to become more interoperable, especially within the EU.
