Imagine being able to call friends via WhatsApp or Messenger who use a completely different chat app. This will be possible starting in 2027, thanks to new regulations in Europe. Users of WhatsApp and Messenger will then be able to not only exchange messages but also make voice and video calls with people using other chat apps. The integration will support all modern features, such as typing indicators, message reactions, and read receipts.
European legislation forces WhatsApp and Messenger to open up to other chat services.
The changes are part of the European Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires companies to add interoperability. This means that companies like Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp and Messenger, must open their chat services to competitors. This could have a significant impact on the way we communicate in the future.
Impact for companies and organizations
For companies, this development can make a significant difference. Organizations that use various chat platforms to communicate with customers and partners will experience fewer limitations. For instance, consider customer service departments that utilize multiple apps. They can now manage all their communication in one inbox. This leads to more efficient processes and quicker responses.
Moreover, this interoperability provides businesses with the opportunity to reach customers on their preferred platform, without the need to switch between apps. This can not only enhance customer satisfaction but also improve accessibility and convenience for users.
Solutions and usability
Meta ensures that the integration of these new features is simple and user-friendly. Users will receive a notification when a new chat app is available and can decide for themselves whether they want to link it to WhatsApp or Messenger. They can also choose whether to receive conversations in their current inbox or prefer to place them in a separate folder. This offers flexibility, depending on the user's personal preference.
Furthermore, Meta goes beyond just the basic features. In addition to sending messages, users can also take advantage of reactions, typing indicators, and read receipts. Starting in 2025, group chats with users from other apps will be possible, and by 2027, we can also expect to make voice and video calls.