WhatsApp changes the rules from today. Meta Platforms will make significant updates to WhatsApp's terms of use and privacy policies, in response to the needs imposed by the European DSA and DMA regulations. These changes, in addition to strengthening data security and ensuring greater transparency, promise to profoundly change the way users interact with each other and with emerging technologies.
A central aspect of these updates is interoperability, mandated by the DMA, which forces WhatsApp to allow communication between its platform and other third-party messaging apps, subject to user consent. When opening the app after the update it will therefore be necessary to answer “Yes” to the notification that appears, to accept the new rules and start using the interoperability function. The change of pace is achieved through an opt-in mechanism, allowing users to actively decide whether or not they wish to communicate with external services. Despite potential concerns regarding security and spam, the change represents a significant advancement towards a more open and connected digital ecosystem.
By lowering the minimum age for registration to 13, WhatsApp adapts to social realities and European regulations, reducing the age threshold in line with the GDPR. This change, influenced by the DSA, is accompanied by the publication of information materials and safety advice aimed at younger people, encouraging them to use the platform consciously and safely. Furthermore, through the “Request account information” function, each user can request and export a report on account information and settings.
WhatsApp's commitment to data protection is manifested in its adherence to the new EU-US Data Privacy Framework, ensuring that European users' data is treated with high security standards. This strengthening of data transfer ensures that personal information flows freely and securely across borders, respecting users' privacy and data sovereignty. Furthermore, new features are introduced, such as voice message transcription and Meta AI integration, which promise to enrich the user experience with advanced artificial intelligence and augmented reality technologies.
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