WhatsApp is creating an option to enable its consumers to message individuals who do not have WhatsApp accounts. The move is largely influenced by the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) and symbolically marks a change of direction to its closed network system.

Highlights:

• WhatsApp is building cross-platform messaging capability.
• The EU's DMA regulations mandate this change.
• User participation will require an explicit opt-in.
• Messages from other platforms will appear in a distinct WhatsApp section.
• Maintaining end-to-end encryption for cross-platform chats remains a key challenge.

This interoperability will allow WhatsApp users to chat with other messaging platforms users in WhatsApp. Outside transfers are to be listed under a separate folder in the chat list. An essential technical necessity is to preserve end-to-end encryption of these cross-platform exchanges.

People have to allow this interoperability manually. The privacy settings will determine who can message a user through external systems. WhatsApp is still working out the exact details of implementation and experience users will have.

The DMA of the EU labels Meta (parent company of WhatsApp) a gatekeeper that is legally obligated to provide this interoperability by the March of 2024. The first deployment is expected to serve the basic messaging (text with images and voice messages and files) in the EU. Support of complex features such as cross platform group chats or video calls, and availability outside of the EU, is unspecified.