WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, has something exciting cooking in its latest beta update for Android (version 2.23.19.8).
They call it “Third-party chats.” What does it mean? We’re still determining because this feature is still a secret and unavailable for regular users. But it’s got us all curious.
WABetaInfo introduces this hidden feature. Even though it’s early, the name suggests that WhatsApp might soon work with other messaging apps. This could change how we message each other.
But there’s more to the story. The European Commission recently said that Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, is like a “gatekeeper” under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union. What’s that? It means WhatsApp has to connect with other messaging apps by March 2024.
The DMA isn’t just about connecting apps. It’s also about making sure everyone gets fair access to digital services.
But wait, there’s more! The DMA also says WhatsApp must let you remove those apps that come with your phone and try out other app stores. It’s about giving you choices.
In response to these rules, Meta and Microsoft plan to launch their app stores. This could change how we get our apps.
The European Commission also monitors Apple’s iMessage and Microsoft’s Bing search engine, Edge browser, and advertising service to see if they follow the DMA rules.
