If it is up to the European Union, popular messaging services such as WhatsApp and iMessage should soon be able to send and receive messages to smaller messaging apps. Currently it is only possible to send messages within the network.
The EU proposal is part of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and requires messaging services with at least 45 million monthly users to also be able to send messages, video calls and messages to apps from smaller messaging services. Those who fail to comply can be fined up to tens of percent of their annual revenue.
The DMA should allow users to make a better choice in the apps of their desire and limit the power of big tech companies. This proposal is similar in the browser or search engine choice several years ago. A manufacturer may not impose that choice on you.
Digital Markets Act
The EU has been talking for years about the DMA, which may be adopted this year. This means that companies like Apple, Google and Meta (Facebook) will have to comply for them to be able to provide services in the European Union. It also requires messages to be end-to-end encrypted to ensure the safety of users. Those who hoped that WhatsApp would also be able to send messages to iMessage users and vice versa will be disappointed; the EU does not require this (yet).
Photo: European Union, Etienne Ansotte