WhatsApp Rolls Out Third-Party Chat Support On Android Beta: Know How It Works

WhatsApp has officially begun testing third-party chat support for Android beta users in the European Union (EU). The feature comes as part of Meta’s compliance with the EU’s strict Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires major platforms to allow interoperability with other messaging apps .

A Step Toward Cross-App Messaging

WhatsApp’s latest beta update (version 2.25.33.8) introduces the long-awaited third-party chat integration. For now, the feature is rolling out only to Android beta testers in the EU region, as confirmed by reliable tipster WaBetaInfo. This move marks a significant shift in how WhatsApp may function in the future allowing users to chat with people from other messaging platforms.

How To Enable Third-Party Chats

The feature remains disabled by default, but users can manually activate it through simple steps:

• Open Settings
• Go to Account
• Select Third-Party Chats and enable the option

Once enabled, WhatsApp will allow communication with users on supported external messaging apps — starting with BirdyChat, the first platform to join the system.

What Users Should Know

While the update sounds exciting, WhatsApp has outlined a few important conditions:

• You can chat with users on approved third-party apps directly through WhatsApp.

• Your phone number will be visible to them, but other personal details will remain private.

• Users you’ve blocked on WhatsApp may still contact you through third-party apps.

• Features like stickers, statuses, and disappearing messages won’t be supported in these cross-platform chats.

• WhatsApp can’t view messages sent via third-party apps, but their own data security may differ.

Currently, BirdyChat is the only supported app, but integration with other popular messengers like Signal and Telegram could follow soon. Meanwhile, Zoho’s Arattai app is also preparing for end-to-end encryption, though challenging WhatsApp’s dominance remains a tall order.

With this update, WhatsApp takes its first real step toward open messaging interoperability, reshaping how users could connect across platforms in the future.