Several significant changes are on the horizon for WhatsApp, as Meta, the parent company of the world’s most widely used messaging app, continues its efforts to open up to competition, as mandated by the European Union under the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The upcoming updates aim to finally align Mark Zuckerberg’s company with European regulations.
A key focus is the interoperability between WhatsApp and Messenger, as well as the integration of its services with rival platforms.
Recently, Meta shared on its blog the introduction of new functionalities for WhatsApp and Messenger users in Europe.
These updates have the potential to revolutionize how we utilize these applications in our daily lives.
Meta emphasizes the importance of connecting users with alternative messaging apps.
The company stated, “We clearly understand from other messaging services that providing users with the option to connect with those using different apps should be overt and easy to find.”
As a result, WhatsApp users will receive notifications regarding the existence of other messaging services.
Likewise, “we will alert users whenever a new third-party messaging application becomes available.”
This change may seem minor, but it shines a light on lesser-known applications that could chip away at Meta’s dominance over time.
Through simple notifications, WhatsApp and Messenger users will discover new alternatives, potentially reducing their reliance on Meta’s services.
Meta plans to introduce two distinct methods for organizing messages from third-party applications in both WhatsApp and Messenger: “combined” or “separate.”
Users will have the option to completely separate messages from third-party apps from their main WhatsApp or Messenger screen, with these messages stored in a separate folder.
Alternatively, users can opt to view all messages in a single inbox, consolidating messages from Messenger, WhatsApp, and third-party apps into one location.
As part of its ongoing developments, Meta is looking beyond the DMA requirements by integrating new messaging features such as quick reactions, direct replies, and read receipts.
Furthermore, in line with the DMA, Meta will enable group creation across different applications in 2025.
By 2027, users will be able to make voice and video calls between the various applications.
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