Enable Third-Party Chats in WhatsApp to Message With BirdyChat Users

See how to turn it on – it takes less than 30 seconds.

WhatsApp now supports messaging with people using other chat apps, such as BirdyChat. By enabling Third-party chats in WhatsApp, you’ll allow BirdyChat users to message you safely and directly within WhatsApp – without needing to install anything new.

Your chats stay private and end-to-end encrypted by WhatsApp.

Quick Setup Steps

Open WhatsApp on your phone.
Go to Settings → Account → Third-party chats.
Tap Turn On.
Make sure BirdyChat is toggled on.

That’s it – you can now chat with BirdyChat users right inside WhatsApp.

Need help?

If you don’t see the option, make sure WhatsApp is updated to the latest version and it's available in your region.

Why Enable “Third-party Chats”?

This new WhatsApp feature (available in the EU under the Digital Markets Act) lets WhatsApp users connect with people on other messaging apps – including BirdyChat.

When you turn on Third-party chats:

You can message BirdyChat users directly in WhatsApp.
Your conversations remain end-to-end encrypted and private.
No extra apps to download – everything happens in WhatsApp.

You can turn this setting off anytime under Settings → Account → Third-party chats.

What Happens Next

Once you or your contact turn it on:

BirdyChat users will see you as Available via WhatsApp.
You’ll receive their messages directly in your WhatsApp chats – just like any other conversation.
If it’s not enabled yet, BirdyChat will show “Waiting for contact to enable chats.”

BirdyChat automatically checks for updates each time you open the app.

Troubleshooting

If Third-party chats doesn’t appear in WhatsApp:

Update WhatsApp to the latest version.
Check that the feature is available in your region (rolling out gradually across the EU).
Restart WhatsApp.

Still stuck? Read the official WhatsApp guide

Frequently asked questions

What does turning on Third-party chats actually do?

It lets people on apps like BirdyChat message you directly in WhatsApp. You don't link or pair accounts. BirdyChat and WhatsApp stay separate, and messages arrive through your regular WhatsApp phone number. Like receiving an email from Gmail in Outlook: different apps, one inbox.

Is it safe?

Yes. WhatsApp messages remain end-to-end encrypted, even when chatting with BirdyChat users.

Can I disable it later?

Yes. You can turn off Third-party chats anytime in WhatsApp settings.

Do I need to enable this for every contact?

No. Once it’s on, you can chat with any BirdyChat user who has also enabled it.