Instagram, Messenger apps to drop cross-platform chatting soon: impact explained

The shift might indicate Meta's focus towards broader DMA-compliant interoperability within Messenger.

Published on: Dec 6, 2023, 24:56:34 IST

By HT News Desk

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Meta Platforms, previously known as Facebook, has announced discontinuing cross-messaging support between Facebook Messenger and Instagram, a feature introduced in September 2020.

Meta integrated Messenger and Instagram, enabling users to communicate seamlessly across both platforms. This integration facilitated connecting with friends and family on Instagram and Messenger, allowed users to send messages and participate in video calls using either app. With this integration, those using the Messenger app could contact you on Instagram without the need for you to download an additional app, and vice versa.

Also read: Meta is betting on India’s ‘Gen Z’ Instagram users to drive trends in 2024

How will the change affect users?

According to an updated Instagram support page, beginning in mid-December 2023, Instagram will no longer support chatting with Facebook accounts. This change will affect:

• Starting a new conversations or calls with Facebook accounts on Instagram will no longer be possible.

• Existing chats with Facebook accounts will become read-only, preventing the exchange of new messages.

• Facebook accounts won't be able to see your Activity Status or message read status.

• Previous chats with Facebook accounts won't transfer to your Facebook or Messenger inbox. To continue chatting, start a new conversation on Messenger or Facebook from your Facebook account.

Why has Meta ended cross-platform communication?

While Meta hasn't officially explained the shift, reports suggest it may be influenced by Europe's Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates large companies to facilitate interoperability among messaging platforms.

This change might indicate Meta's focus towards broader DMA-compliant interoperability within Messenger.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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