Meta Launches WhatsApp Third-Party Chats in EU

Meta announced on Friday that WhatsApp users in the European Union will soon be able to chat directly with people on select third-party messaging apps, marking a key step in complying with the bloc's Digital Markets Act.

The feature, called third-party chats, stems from the DMA's interoperability requirements, which mandate that large tech platforms like Meta open their services to compatible rivals. It will initially connect WhatsApp users with those on BirdyChat, a work-focused app, and Haiket, a voice-first messaging platform. The rollout begins over the coming months across Europe for Android and iOS devices, excluding web, desktop, or tablet versions. Users will receive a notification in the app's Settings tab explaining how to opt in, and participation remains entirely optional, with the ability to enable or disable it at any time.

Once activated, the integration allows sharing of text messages, voice notes, images, videos, and files between WhatsApp and the partner apps. Users can choose to view third-party messages in a dedicated folder or integrate them into their main inbox. Group chats with third-party users will follow once the partners support the functionality....