WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.5.10.72: what's new?
WhatsApp has just submitted a new update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 24.5.10.72. The version marked within WhatsApp Settings is 2.24.5.72 and the TestFlight build is 24.5.10 (572936257).
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is working on a chat interoperability feature to comply with new EU regulations, and it will be available in a future update!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Third-party chats |
| Status? | Under development |
| Availability? | WhatsApp is working on bringing third-party chats support to a future update. |
| I have the same version but I don't have this feature, why? | This feature is in development so it is not ready for beta testers, but it is possible to get a preview in this article. |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp news of the week: passkey feature is available on iOS beta! |
THIRD-PARTY CHATS
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.5.18 update, we announced that WhatsApp is working on a chat interoperability feature. This feature aims to facilitate messaging between people who do not have a WhatsApp account and users on the platform, as mandated by European law since WhatsApp is considered as a gatekeeper. Consequently, this feature will be exclusive to users in the European Region. After installing the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.5.10.72 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp keeps working on the third-party chats feature!
WhatsApp is currently exploring a new section where users in the European Region can decide whether they wish to communicate with other people using different apps. As interoperable messaging systems must maintain end-to-end encryption, third-party apps may employ different encryption methods. Consequently, chats conducted through such apps will be listed into a distinct inbox within the chats tab. As mentioned in the attached screenshot, users are advised to exercise caution when engaging in conversations via third-party chats, as instances of spam and scams may be more prevalent, particularly because profile names and photos are unavailable. It is important to note that while third-party apps adhere to their own policies, data handling practices may differ from those of WhatsApp.
The introduction of chat interoperability will finally allow WhatsApp to align with EU regulations while offering users a different communication alternatives. Additionally, this change will not compromise the experience or security standards of current chats and groups maintained within the WhatsApp platform. It's worth noting that this feature is optional, requiring users to manually activate the interoperability service. In addition, users will be able to disable chat interoperability at any time, as outlined in Article 7 of the regulations, stopping any cross-platform communication and reverting to the standard WhatsApp experience.
The development of the chat interoperability feature, in compliance with new EU regulations, is currently underway and will be available in a future update of the app. Further information regarding this feature will be provided in another article once we have additional details to share with you.
Stay up-to-date on WhatsApp news by following WABetaInfo on X. You can also discover other new features for WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web/Desktop, and Windows.
Do you like this news? Please, let us know on X: we love hearing your feedback! If you're curious to see where you can find WABetaInfo, there is a dedicated page where you can discover our services.
In addition, we have set up a Discord Server where you can chat with other people, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest announcements from WABetaInfo.