Thanks to a WABetaInfo post a few months back, we learned that WhatsApp is testing out cross-platform communication. But this was just the start, as a number of intriguing developments transpired, such as Apple confirming RCS messaging functionality for iPhones. We can now see the specifics of WhatsApp's app-to-app compatibility according to the most recent Wired story.
As one of the six gatekeeper businesses, Meta was identified under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) rules, which the report brings to our attention. It also granted Meta six months to ensure that the platform is interoperable and to comply with these laws.
Additionally, the piece has an interview by Wired with WhatsApp's engineering director, Dick Brouwer, who divulges some crucial information on the interoperability mechanism. To begin with, Brouwer discloses that this will function as a kind of opt-in feature.
A fundamental prerequisite, and one of utmost importance, is that users be opt-in. I have the freedom to decide whether or not to engage in message exchanges with outside parties. This is significant as it may be a major hub for frauds and spam.. - Brouwer
Upon consenting, messages from these third-party apps will appear in a different tab inside the WhatsApp client. A January WABetaInfo report gave us a preview of the location of this tab inside the mobile app.
Providing the same degree of security and privacy to those interactions with third parties is the primary problem. But according to the article, WhatsApp would only let these third-party applications to use various encryption standards inasmuch as they adhere to its security requirements.
Nevertheless, integrating interoperable conversations into WhatsApp won't be an easy task. Chats that are compatible with third-party programs also make it more likely that spam and frauds may be encountered. Furthermore, Bouwer states that interoperability has been evolving progressively ever since ."an open network evolves more slowly."
It seems that WhatsApp's functionality for interoperable conversations is likely in its last stages of development, and its release should not be too far off. Though as of yet, no precise dates have been disclosed.
Regarding WhatsApp interoperability, what are your thoughts? Is this a wise decision? Tell us in the comments section below!