What the New Feature Means
WhatsApp is introducing a significant update that will allow its users to chat with people using other messaging apps without leaving WhatsApp. This cross-platform chats feature will enable message exchange with third-party apps like rival messengers, opening the door to greater interoperability and flexibility.
How It Works
Once enabled, users will find a new “Third-party Chats” option under Settings → Account → Third-party Chats. From there, they can choose to merge chats with other-app users into a combined inbox or keep them separate in a dedicated folder. Users can send and receive texts, photos, videos, voice notes and documents from within WhatsApp.
Key Limitations and Features
While the feature supports basic media and conversation types, it does not yet support status updates, disappearing messages or stickers for chats with other apps. End-to-end encryption is still maintained for cross-platform chats, but users should remember that data-protection policies of other apps may differ.
Launch Timeline and Availability
Currently the cross-platform chats feature is in beta testing among select users in Europe. Wider rollout is expected later, possibly with voice and video cross-app calls arriving even later. The feature is optional; you can continue using WhatsApp as before without enabling it.
Why It Matters
This update marks a shift in how messaging apps may operate. By opening communication across platforms, WhatsApp may reduce the need to maintain multiple apps for chatting. It could boost convenience, reduce fragmentation and raise questions about privacy and blocking controls across apps.
