WhatsApp, an encrypted messaging platform (E2EE), will soon add support for third-party messaging. Now, leaked images have been released that give us a taste of what the new interface will look like. This image shows that this feature may only be available in Europe at the moment. In particular, metaplatforms will need to add support for cross-platform messaging under the new EU Digital Markets Rule (DMA), which comes into effect on March 6. WhatsApp has removed this feature.
The leaked screenshots were shared via a WABetaInfo report and revealed that the next build of WhatsApp version 2.24.5.18 will add interop chat features. Also known as third-party chat, it allows users to send messages directly from WhatsApp to users of Signal, Telegram or other messaging apps without having to install the app. This feature is intended to overcome platform limitations and enable smoother and more accessible communication between users.
A header titled “Third Party Chat” can be seen in the leaked image. The screen looks like a selection screen and has a button at the bottom to activate the feature. Several warnings will appear in the middle of the screen. The first warning is: “You are sending a message to someone other than WhatsApp. Third-party apps may use different end-to-end encryption.” Another warning warns of spam or fraud. It is highlighted that it occurs more often in the third case. – Party Chats The last warning says: “Third-party apps have their own policies and may process your data differently than WhatsApp.” The last line says that by law this feature is only available in European regions. This feature is described as being provided to users. .
WhatsApp’s head of technology, Dick Brewer, has reportedly already confirmed the feature and said the company is working on it. It also explained that these chats are not protected by the messaging app’s E2EE protocol and are therefore displayed separately. WhatsApp is also said to have started documenting a client-server protocol to allow other chat services to connect their clients directly to WhatsApp servers and send messages to users via the platform.
If your third-party platform does not agree to this step, you must ensure that their encryption protocols meet WhatsApp’s security standards. The report shows that several popular platforms have not confirmed whether they will work with Meta-owned platforms to add support for chat interactivity.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
