WhatsApp to Allow Interoperability with Other Messaging Networks
WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform with over 2 billion users, is preparing to offer interoperability with other messaging networks. In an interview with Wired, Dick Brouwer, an engineering director at WhatsApp, confirmed the company’s readiness to provide interoperability while maintaining user privacy, security, and integrity.
Implications of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) Rule
The European Union (EU) has mandated messaging interoperability under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) since 2022. This rule requires platform gatekeepers such as WhatsApp and Messenger to open up their services to other chat apps.
Meta’s Efforts in Adding Support
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is also working to include other chat apps in Messenger. Initially, the focus will be on one-on-one chats where users can exchange text, audio, video, images, and files. This feature, called “Third-party chats,” will be available in a new sub-menu on top of the inbox.
Optimized Experience with Opt-in Functionality
The interoperability experience will be opt-in to avoid potential issues related to spam and scams. WhatsApp users can choose to participate in exchanging messages with third parties. To be interoperable with Meta’s system, companies will need to sign an agreement, with the details yet to be made public.
Consideration of Privacy and Security Concerns
When it comes to feature parity between third-party chats and WhatsApp native chats, Brouwer explains that it might not be achieved due to privacy and security considerations. Interoperability could introduce new challenges in maintaining user privacy and security.
The Impact on the Messaging App Landscape
Multi-service messaging apps have been in the spotlight recently. Examples include Automattic’s acquisition of Texts.com and Beeper’s efforts, led by Pebble smartwatch founder Eric Migicovsky, in bringing iMessage to Android phones. These developments signify the growing trend of incorporating multiple messaging services under one umbrella.
It remains uncertain whether other operators like Telegram, Viber, and Google plan to support interoperability with WhatsApp.
Note: The pictured used above is for illustrative purposes and does not represent the original article’s accompanying image.
