Update on Native Matrix Interoperability with WhatsApp
Matrix.org is integrating with WhatsApp for interoperability under the Digital Markets Act, allowing EU users access, but facing challenges like EEA restrictions and funding needs for development.
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Matrix.org has provided an update on the integration of Matrix with WhatsApp, focusing on the interoperability required by the Digital Markets Act (DMA). At FOSDEM, Matrix showcased its potential for end-to-end encrypted messaging interoperability, and discussions with Meta have led to some progress. Notably, WhatsApp will allow EU users to be reachable by interoperable services by default, and users will have options for managing their inboxes. However, challenges remain, including the requirement for users to be located in the European Economic Area (EEA) to access interoperability, which contradicts Matrix's mission of providing secure communication globally. Additionally, WhatsApp's interop solution does not support multi-device conversations or server-side message buffering. The financial viability of developing a native Matrix-WhatsApp bridge is uncertain, and the Matrix Foundation is seeking organizations willing to sponsor the development. The Foundation emphasizes the need for funding to advance this initiative, particularly given the constraints imposed by the DMA.
- Matrix is working on interoperability with WhatsApp under the Digital Markets Act.
- EU users will be reachable by interoperable services by default.
- Users must be located in the EEA to access interoperability, limiting global access.
- Financial support is needed to develop a native Matrix-WhatsApp bridge.
- The Matrix Foundation is seeking sponsors to fund the development of this integration.
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4 commentsDoes this mean that only matrix.org and (maybe?) other select servers will be allowed to interop?
Will a user from another matrix instance be able to use the matrix.org WhatsApp bridge or would that not be possible due to an inability to share the user's IP with WhatsApp?
It's not even that they are a showstopper (even though they are obviously against the interests of anyone who likes the very idea of Matrix), they just seem to be completely pointless, which even a malevolent party (Meta) must admit. I mean, I am no expert in how to deal with passive-agressive bureaucrats, but you must admit they are extremely easy to bypass. Just enable a VPN and poof, you are in Europe, as far as Matrix server is concerned. So why force users to jump over these hoops, if you know they won't really stop anybody? I do get they don't want it to be convenient, but they can't deny it's pointless.
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