Meta has announced its plans to introduce third-party chat integration for WhatsApp and Messenger, a feature initially rolling out for users in the European Union. The update will provide new options, allowing users to either combine Messenger and WhatsApp messages with third-party chats in a single inbox or keep them separate.
In addition to this, Meta is developing new notifications for both Messenger and WhatsApp that will inform users when they can connect chats from newly supported apps. The company states it has “gone above and beyond the ‘basic’ features required for interoperable messaging,” promising a rich suite of messaging capabilities such as reactions, direct replies, typing indicators, and read receipts.
Next year, Meta also plans to introduce the ability to create groups with contacts from third-party apps. Moreover, the company’s interoperability vision extends beyond text messaging; it aims to support third-party video and voice calls by 2027.
This move comes in response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which designates Meta as a “digital gatekeeper,” compelling it to make WhatsApp and Messenger compatible with third-party messaging apps like iMessage, Telegram, Google Messages, Signal, and others. However, Meta will face certain challenges in achieving this integration. Companies wishing to connect with WhatsApp and Messenger will need to utilize the same Signal Protocol that ensures message privacy. According to a copy of the agreement, Meta will make the Signal Protocol available to third-party partners upon request.
These efforts signal Meta’s commitment to aligning with regulatory demands while pushing the boundaries of cross-platform communication. As the company navigates these new requirements, it could set a precedent for how tech giants adapt to evolving digital landscapes, potentially reshaping the future of messaging in the EU and beyond.
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