Meta, the American tech giant, has unveiled plans to integrate third-party messaging services with its popular platforms, WhatsApp and Messenger, to comply with the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Third-Party Chats
This new feature will allow users in Europe to manage conversations from various messaging apps within a single interface, enhancing connectivity and user experience, according to startupcafe.
Under the upcoming regulations, users will have the option to combine chats from third-party services into a unified inbox or keep them organized separately in a dedicated section labeled "Third-party chats." Meta's official announcement highlighted that this integration aims to streamline communication while adhering to EU requirements.
In addition to the unified chat interface, Meta will implement new in-app notifications to alert users when conversations with third-party apps are available. This development is part of Meta's broader strategy to simplify integration settings for users, making it easier to connect with other messaging platforms.
Group Chat and Video Call in the Works
Moreover, Meta has designed features for responding to messages, adding reactions, and viewing typing and read indicators specifically for third-party conversations. The company also announced that group chat and video call integrations are in the works, with expected rollouts in 2025 and 2027, respectively.
The Digital Markets Act, which takes effect on March 7, 2024, designates Meta as a "gatekeeper" along with five other tech companies, including Apple, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and ByteDance (TikTok).
These companies must demonstrate compliance with the DMA and submit detailed reports outlining their measures to ensure fair competition in the digital market.
The DMA aims to create more equitable and contestable markets in the digital sector within the EU, establishing new rules for major platforms and granting enhanced rights to European businesses and end-users.
