Over the past few years, WhatsApp has grown in popularity, especially in Southeast Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America. Because it is tied to a phone number, it is easy to sign up new users, and it is equally easy to find your social network. As a result of this accessibility, WhatsApp has become extremely popular. Due to the Digital Markets Act of the European Union, it appears the platform will now take steps to open itself up to other messaging services.
A new section has been spotted in WhatsApp to hold “third-party chats”. This may be the start of WhatsApp becoming interoperable with other apps. Interoperability means that people can message WhatsApp users from other apps without needing WhatsApp installed.
The Digital Markets Act forces big tech companies to open up and play nice. WhatsApp is now required to allow messaging between users on its service and others. This discourages relying on just one platform and promotes competition in messaging.
It’s unknown how WhatsApp will keep conversations secure while allowing interoperability. Messages may come through WhatsApp from other services in this new section. WhatsApp will have 6 months to comply with the Act in Europe.
This could be a big change for users. Messaging people on WhatsApp without downloading it may appeal to some. It remains to be seen how the feature takes shape, but WhatsApp seems to be starting work on opening its doors to other messaging apps.
