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WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a major update that will enable users to communicate with individuals on other messaging platforms, a move recently confirmed by Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp. This exciting new feature comes as part of Meta’s response to the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), which was implemented in 2022. 

The law aims to increase the interoperability of major messaging platforms, promoting more open communication across different services. Initially, Meta requested extra time to address technical challenges, particularly around maintaining WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption while integrating with third-party platforms. However, Meta has now confirmed that these challenges have been resolved, and the new functionality is on its way.

According to Meta, the development of this cross-platform communication feature required an additional six months to guarantee a smooth and effortless user experience. The feature will work similarly to Meta’s Messenger, the messaging platform linked to Facebook, by allowing users to communicate across different services while still prioritizing privacy and security. Meta assures that user protection will remain a top priority throughout the integration process.

One of the most significant aspects of this new update is how users will be notified of messages from other platforms. WhatsApp plans to introduce notifications that will alert users when they receive a message from a third-party service. Each time a new messaging platform becomes accessible through WhatsApp, users will be reminded of the availability of the service, ensuring they stay informed and in control of their communication preferences.

To make the process even more user-friendly, WhatsApp will introduce a simple onboarding system for activating third-party messaging. Users will have the flexibility to choose which external platforms they want to connect to and customize how these conversations are displayed in their inbox. 

They can choose to keep messages from third-party apps in a separate folder or merge them into their primary inbox for a unified experience. This flexibility allows users to tailor their WhatsApp experience based on their personal preferences, either keeping their external conversations separate or organizing all chats into a single view.

WhatsApp users will continue to enjoy the app’s core features, such as message reactions, direct replies, typing indicators, and read receipts, even in conversations with users from other platforms. Looking ahead, WhatsApp has even more features planned, including the introduction of group chats, as well as voice and video calling across different platforms by 2027. Meta is working closely with third-party messaging solutions to maintain the security and integrity of user-friendly integration, providing a safe environment for all users.