Facebook is planning to unify the underlying messaging infrastructure of its WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook Messenger services and incorporate end-to-end encryption to the apps.

The three services will, however, continue as stand-alone apps. Facebook confirmed it is working on making more of its messaging products end-to-end encrypted and considering ways to make it easier for users to connect across networks.

With the changes, a Facebook user should henceforth be able to send an encrypted message to someone who has only a WhatsApp account.