WhatsApp is getting ready to take a big step by opening up its messaging platform to other messaging apps, a move that has been in the works for some time now. The latest beta version of the app has revealed more details about how this feature will work and how far along it is in development.

This decision by WhatsApp is directly influenced by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to promote competition in the digital space by breaking down barriers between tech giants. The upcoming “chat interoperability” feature will allow users in the EU to connect with contacts on different messaging apps, even if those contacts do not use WhatsApp themselves.

The feature, discovered by Wabetainfo, is currently in development and not yet available to users. In the WhatsApp Android beta version 2.24.5.18, a new section will be introduced where users can enable interoperability, giving them the ability to exchange messages across different messaging platforms.

While end-to-end encryption will still be maintained, it’s important to note that different messaging apps may use varying encryption protocols, leading to separate inboxes for external chats. WhatsApp advises users to be cautious when using chat interoperability due to these differences.

In addition to encryption concerns, cross-platform communication could potentially expose users to spam and scams as each app has its own privacy policies that may handle data differently than WhatsApp does.

Despite these challenges, this move by WhatsApp is a positive step for consumers in the EU as it offers them greater choice and flexibility in how they communicate online. It is unclear at this time whether these changes will apply globally or only within the EU, but the optional nature of the feature signifies a move towards greater interconnectedness in the messaging app landscape.