Observed Signal · Sep 10, 2024 · Policy Update · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 5/5 · Sentiment: Neutral

WhatsApp Third-Party Chats in EU under DMA

Executive Signal Summary

Meta has published an update detailing Third Party Chats for WhatsApp and Messenger in the EU, outlining how interoperable chats will look and work with partner apps. Features include Reactions, Direct Replies, typing indicators, and read receipts, with an onboarding section explaining how users can manage Third Party Chats and the individual services they enable. The rollout is limited to the EU for now, with notifications informing users when a new third-party messaging app becomes available. Meta states the work is in alignment with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) requirements and efforts to achieve cross-service interoperability. The DMA deadline passed in March 2024, and Meta is pushing ahead to deliver Third Party Chats. The company also notes that 2025 will enable group creation, followed by video and voice calls for Third Party Chats approx. two years later; exact availability, including in Germany, remains unclear.

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High Confidence

Policy update from Meta regarding DMA-driven interoperability in the EU; high impact on the adtech/Martech ecosystem.

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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding

  • Meta posts a public update detailing Third Party Chats for WhatsApp and Messenger, including Reactions, Direct Replies, typing indicators, and read receipts.
  • Third Party Chats are planned for the EU, with notifications when a new third-party messaging app becomes available.
  • The EU Digital Markets Act deadline passed in March 2024; Meta is pursuing interoperability to comply with DMA requirements.
  • Meta indicates Groups will be added in 2025 and video/voice calls for Third Party Chats about two years later (around 2027).
  • Onboarding explains management of Third Party Chats and whether to display them in inbox or separately; availability in Germany is unclear.
Primary Source Grounding & Direct Attribution
Direct Origin Attribution
Primary Reporting: OnlineMarketing.de•Published: Sep 10, 2024
Original Coverage Title: “So sehen die WhatsApp Third Party Chats aus | OnlineMarketing.de”

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