Abu Zar Mishwani
WhatsApp, known for its secure messaging with end-to-end encryption, is reportedly gearing up to introduce a feature allowing third-party messages. A leaked image has emerged, offering a sneak peek into the anticipated new interface design.
The leaked image hints that this new feature might initially launch in Europe. This move comes as WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is obligated to enable cross-platform messaging under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) starting from March 6. It’s anticipated that WhatsApp will roll out this feature before the deadline.
The leaked screenshot came from a report by WABetaInfo. According to the report, the next WhatsApp update, version 2.24.5.18, will introduce a feature called chat interoperability.
Also referred to as third-party chats, this feature will let users send messages to someone on Signal, Telegram, or other messaging apps directly from WhatsApp without having to download those apps separately.
It’s believed that this feature will enhance communication between users by removing platform-related barriers.
The leaked image shows a header labeled “Third-party chats.” It appears to be an opt-in screen featuring a button at the bottom to turn on the feature. In the middle of the page, several warnings are displayed.
The first warning cautions, “You’re messaging someone outside of WhatsApp. Third-party apps may use different end-to-end encryption.”
Another warning emphasizes the potential for increased spam and scams with third-party chats. The final warning states, “Third-party apps have their own policies. They may handle your data differently than WhatsApp does.”
The last line clarifies that this feature is being provided to users in the European region due to legal requirements.
According to a report, WhatsApp Engineering Director Dick Brouwer confirmed the upcoming feature, stating that the company is actively working on it.
He further explained that these chats will be displayed separately because the messaging app’s end-to-end encryption (E2EE) protocol does not cover them.
Additionally, it was reported that WhatsApp has started documenting its client-server protocol. This move aims to enable other chat services to connect their clients directly to WhatsApp’s servers, allowing them to message users across different platforms.
If third-party platforms are hesitant to comply with the procedure, they must ensure that their encryption protocol aligns with WhatsApp’s security standards.
The report emphasized that many popular platforms have not confirmed whether they are collaborating with the Meta-owned platform to integrate support for chat interoperability.