WhatsApp, the globally popular messaging application, is working on enhancing cross-platform communication capabilities, as indicated by the latest features found in its beta update for Android.
While the direct messaging functionality with platforms like Telegram or Signal is not yet operational, WhatsApp is laying the foundation for a future where such cross-platform interactions can occur. The most recent beta version, labeled as 2.24.6.2, unveils the company’s progress in developing a feature known as “Manage Third-Party Chats.”
User Control and Regulatory Compliance
This innovative feature addresses two significant aspects: user empowerment and compliance with EU regulations.
Primarily, this feature grants users the authority to completely disable the chat interoperability service. This action aligns with Article 7 of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), emphasizing users' control over data sharing and communication preferences. This option allows users uninterested in cross-platform messaging to opt-out entirely.
Secondly, the feature provides detailed control over which third-party applications can interact with WhatsApp. This feature enhances user independence and allows them to personalize their communication experience. Users can select specific trusted messaging services to integrate with, customizing their level of connectivity.
Selective Management of Third-Party App Access
The capability to selectively manage third-party app access is notably advantageous. Users can avoid unsolicited communication from unknown platforms while maintaining connections with desired services. Furthermore, disabling the entire service offers a clear exit strategy for users who change their minds regarding cross-platform messaging.
It should be noted that deactivating the service does come with some restrictions. Existing third-party chats will shift to a read-only mode, preventing users from sending or receiving new messages within those conversations. Nonetheless, these chats will remain accessible within WhatsApp and can be deleted as desired by the user.
Despite being in the developmental phase, the “Manage Third-Party Chats” feature sets the stage for a more interconnected future for WhatsApp users. This advancement coincides with the company's efforts to adhere to the EU’s DMA regulations and accommodate evolving user preferences in the realm of cross-platform communication. With additional details anticipated in forthcoming updates, this feature is poised to significantly alter how users engage and manage their messaging encounters on WhatsApp.
In addition to these developments, WhatsApp is actively testing new features in recent beta versions. Among these tests, there is an exploration of implementing a secret code for locked chats on WhatsApp Web, with a focus on enhancing privacy and security. Furthermore, they are experimenting with a redesigned status tab in the latest beta version.
