WhatsApp releases new feature, Allows users send messages to other messaging apps

A new feature known as “Third-party chats” has been added to WhatsApp for Android beta (version 2.23.19.8) in a recent release. This beta release comes soon after the European Commission declared that Meta, WhatsApp’s owner, qualifies as a “gatekeeper” under the terms of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).

This law requires messaging services like WhatsApp to roll out a feature known as “chat interoperability” or “messaging compatibility” that will let its users communicate with those using other third-party messaging services. By March 2024, this functionality must be operational and implemented.

The screen is still inoperable and unavailable to users at the current stage of “Third-party chats.” Its moniker, however, alludes to an important development because it might lead to the cross-platform compatibility of Meta’s encrypted messaging software.

The DMA wants to guarantee that the digital services offered by major internet companies are accessible to all.

To do this, DMA’s rules place a strong emphasis on the necessity of messaging apps working together, so you can chat with your friends even if they use different apps. Additionally, it states that gatekeepers must permit you to erase the pre-installed programs on your device and access other app stores if you so choose. Users are given greater freedom and options in this way.

In response to the DMA, Meta and Microsoft are both expanding their mobile app stores. The Bing search engine, Edge browser, and advertising service from Microsoft, together with Apple’s iMessage, are currently the subject of an investigation by the European Commission to see if they adhere to the new legal requirements.

Google is continuously working to improve interoperability between its various messaging services, such as Android Messages, Google Chat, and Google Meet. Additionally, Telegram has long provided an API for bots that enables developers to connect Telegram to a variety of platforms and applications. This strategy enabled some interoperability, enabling different programs to communicate with Telegram.

Among texting apps, WhatsApp is becoming more popular

The introduction of cross-platform chatting by WhatsApp benefits users in a variety of ways. First off, it vastly improves the user experience as a whole. WhatsApp removes the annoying communication obstacles that frequently result from device limitations by enabling seamless conversation across many platforms.

Another benefit of this improvement is convenience. Users don’t have to worry about losing their chat history or missing critical messages when switching between their cellphones, tablets, or desktop PCs. Many users like the convenience that this flexibility brings to the texting process.

Cross-platform texting increases efficiency for corporate users. On many devices, it enables professionals to stay connected and productive. This enables them to carry on their business-related chats even while switching between desktop and mobile settings.

Another important benefit is the capability to back up and synchronize chats, media, and messages between platforms. Preserving and making critical data accessible promotes data security and ease. It is especially helpful for effortlessly handling communications on a personal and professional level.

Adopting cross-platform capability becomes a strategic move in the cutthroat market for messaging apps. Through its adaptability, WhatsApp is drawing and keeping users in the congested market for messaging apps.

Cross-platform messaging also makes it easier to integrate with other programs and services, giving users a more integrated digital experience. This increases WhatsApp’s usefulness and appeal in users’ day-to-day lives.

Other recent updates from WhatsApp

When it comes to product improvements, WhatsApp has been in an uproar. By conducting a beta test of a screen-sharing functionality for its video call feature, it entered the video conferencing market. The Meta-owned program is unconcerned despite competing in a market that is dominated by spotlights like Microsoft Teams and Google Meet.

It announced a tool a month ago that lets users send quick videos in chats. A few security-related enhancements were unveiled four months ago. In essence, WhatsApp’s efforts to expand through creative updates have not slowed down.

The messaging service announced WhatsApp Chat Lock, a feature that enables users to hide chats from public view.

On both iPhone and Andriod, users can now select the chat lock feature, according to WhatsApp. They can use the feature to password-protect their private communications. Users will need to employ device verification techniques like their phone passcode, Face ID, or fingerprint in order to access the closed chat. Locked chats will also be kept separately in a specific folder on the App.

The messaging app stated a few weeks back that audio communications, which give users a quick and secure way to share their voice, had revolutionized the way people connect. This is the reason why it is presently enhancing the capabilities of instant video messages.

Author

Samson Ayodeji

I am literally obsessed with technology. I love writing about the latest news in technology in different markets, segments and sectors across the world.

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