WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.32.10.72: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new iOS update through the TestFlight beta Program, bringing the version up to 25.32.10.72.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that enables third-party chats in order to comply with European regulations, and it's available to some beta testers!

WhatsApp Takes a Big Step Toward EU Interoperability Compliance

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.33.8 update, we announced that a feature to start third-party chats was available. This functionality offers users the possibility to start conversations with contacts from other supported messaging apps without leaving WhatsApp. It integrates external services directly into the chat interface, allowing seamless communication across different platforms. Users can send and receive messages, photos, videos, and documents as if they were chatting with another WhatsApp user.

It appears that WhatsApp now intends to offer iOS users the same interoperability functionality as it already does for the Android version, aiming to provide a consistent experience across both platforms. This update brings the same cross-platform communication capabilities to iOS, allowing users to connect with people from other messaging apps directly through WhatsApp. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 25.32.10.72 update, which is available on the TestFlight app, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that enables third-party chats in order to comply with European regulations!

WhatsApp Launches Third-Party Chats for Cross-App Messaging

After installing the latest WhatsApp update, some users can now choose to enable the third-party chats feature, which allows them to be contacted by people from other messaging apps. If the feature is available for your account, a banner will appear directly in your settings. The banner will invite you to activate the feature by navigating to Account > Third-Party Chats. At the moment, the rollout only includes one-on-one chats, but a future update will make it possible to create third-party group chats.

Features Available in Third-Party Chats

WhatsApp's third-party chats introduce the core tools for seamless communication, including text, photo, video, voice, and document sharing. Users can decide how to organize these messages, choosing between a combined inbox or a separate section for third-party chats. Personalization settings allow control over notifications, media quality, and alerts to create a smoother experience. Although advanced WhatsApp-native features like status updates, stickers, and disappearing messages aren't yet available, WhatsApp is committed to expanding interoperability over time.

How Third-Party Chats Work in WhatsApp

It is possible to chat with people on any eligible third-party messaging app directly from WhatsApp. These third-party apps may have different security standards and data-handling practices compared to WhatsApp, which users should review carefully. People using eligible third-party apps can use your phone number to contact you, enabling direct communication between platforms. While your phone number is shared for identification, no other personal information is disclosed.

WhatsApp clarifies that users blocked on WhatsApp might still be able to contact you through third-party chats. This happens because blocking applies only within the WhatsApp ecosystem. WhatsApp maintains end-to-end encryption, so Meta cannot view or access your messages in third-party chats. This approach preserves user privacy while maintaining cross-platform functionality.

Manage Notifications for Third-Party Chat Requests

Users have full control over whether they want to receive notifications for incoming chat requests from other apps. Within the app settings, they can choose to be alerted when someone from a third-party messaging service tries to contact them. This helps users manage their privacy and reduce unwanted request notifications. Alerts can be toggled on or off at any time, giving users flexibility and control.

Choose Where to Display Third-Party Chats

WhatsApp gives users the option to decide where third-party chats will appear. In Combined mode, WhatsApp and third-party messages are shown together in the same inbox for a unified experience. In Separated mode, third-party chats are stored in a distinct folder within the main inbox. This setting allows users to customize how they want cross-platform messages to appear.

BirdyChat Becomes the First App to Support WhatsApp Interoperability

BirdyChat is officially the first messaging app to support WhatsApp's new interoperability framework. In order to appear as a compatible third-party service within WhatsApp, apps must develop their own interoperability layer and submit an access request to WhatsApp. Once a request is submitted, WhatsApp conducts a security review to ensure that the app meets its strict encryption and privacy requirements. Only services that can guarantee end-to-end encryption and user data protection similar to WhatsApp's standards will be approved.

Third-Party Chats Are Optional and Disabled by Default

The third-party chats feature is turned off by default, ensuring that users opt in voluntarily. This means no one can contact you from other apps unless you explicitly enable the feature. WhatsApp designed this approach to prioritize user consent and security. Activating the feature is entirely optional and can be reversed at any time.

WhatsApp Aligns with the European Digital Markets Act

With this release, WhatsApp aligns itself with European regulatory requirements under the Digital Markets Act. The DMA obliges large platforms, known as gatekeepers, to ensure interoperability with competing services. This regulation aims to promote fair competition and prevent dominant tech companies from locking users into their ecosystems. By complying, WhatsApp demonstrates its commitment to openness and transparency.

For users, this change means greater freedom to connect with anyone, regardless of the messaging app they use. It also enhances choice, convenience, and innovation in the European digital market. Interoperability will reduce fragmentation, allowing smoother cross-app communication. As a result, it represents a significant step toward a more open and connected messaging landscape.

Feature Availability Limited to the European Region

Currently, the third-party chats feature is available only in the European region. This limited rollout ensures compliance with the EU Digital Markets Act, which applies exclusively within the European Economic Area. WhatsApp must meet these obligations in the EU before considering broader expansion. Its availability is limited to Europe because the interoperability mandate currently applies only under EU legislation.

Feature to Create Third-Party Chats is Rolling out on iOS Beta

The ability to create and use third-party chats is now rolling out to users on the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS update. However, some users installing the latest stable release from the App Store may also gain access to the same functionality. This gradual rollout allows WhatsApp to test stability and performance before full deployment. As updates continue, more iOS users will see the option appear in their account settings.

Stay Connected with WABetaInfo

Following WABetaInfo on X is the best way to stay informed about new features under development and those released to WhatsApp beta for Android, iOS, Web, and Desktop. We love hearing your feedback, so let us know what you think! You can also explore our dedicated page to discover all our services, or join our Discord Server to chat with others, get help and advice, and stay up to date with the latest WABetaInfo announcements.