WhatsApp Third-Party Chat Interface Leaks Ahead of EU’s DMA Deadline

As WhatsApp prepares to integrate third-party messaging support into its platform, a leaked image has emerged offering a sneak peek into the forthcoming interface. The leaked snapshot suggests that this feature may initially roll out exclusively in Europe, aligning with regulatory mandates outlined in the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). With the DMA’s enforcement slated for March 6, WhatsApp is under pressure to swiftly implement cross-platform messaging capabilities to comply with regional regulations. Anticipation mounts as users await the platform’s response, expected to materialize in the form of live updates preceding the impending deadline.

Shared through a report by WABetaInfo, the leaked screenshot unveils insights into WhatsApp’s upcoming build version 2.24.5.18, poised to introduce a pivotal chat interoperability feature. Dubbed as third-party chats, this feature promises users the ability to seamlessly communicate with contacts on alternative messaging platforms such as Signal, Telegram, and more, directly from within the WhatsApp interface.

By eliminating the need for users to navigate between multiple messaging apps, this integration aims to foster a more cohesive and streamlined communication experience, transcending platform-specific barriers that have traditionally impeded cross-platform interactions.

With the impending rollout of third-party messaging support, WhatsApp endeavors to usher in a new era of connectivity and accessibility for its user base. By embracing interoperability, the Meta-owned platform not only seeks to enhance user convenience but also aligns with evolving regulatory frameworks aimed at fostering a competitive digital landscape. As the countdown to the DMA deadline progresses, all eyes are on WhatsApp as it navigates the intricate terrain of compliance while striving to deliver innovative solutions that resonate with its global user community.

In the leaked image, a header labeled Third-party chats can be seen. The screen appears to be an opt-in screen, with the bottom containing a button to Turn on the feature. The middle of the page comes with several warnings. The first warning states, “You’re messaging someone outside of WhatsApp. Third-party apps may use different end-to-end encryption.” Another warning highlighted that instances of spam and scams might be more common with third-party chats. The final warning read, “Third-party apps have their own policies. They may handle your data differently than WhatsApp does.” The final line explained that the feature is being offered to users in the European region as required by law.

WhatsApp Engineering Director Dick Brouwer earlier confirmed the feature, stating the company was working on it, according to a report. He also explained that these chats will be shown separately as they are not protected by the messaging app’s E2EE protocol. It was also said that WhatsApp has begun documenting its client-server protocol to let other chat services connect their clients directly to WhatsApp’s servers and message users across platforms.

In case third-party platforms are unwilling to follow the procedure, they would need to verify that their encryption protocol matches WhatsApp’s security standard. The report highlighted that several popular platforms did not confirm if they were working with the Meta-owned platform to add support for chat interoperability or not.