WeChat is the most widely used mobile app in China and an essential part of daily life for locals. More than just a messaging tool, it combines social networking, mobile payments, and everyday services into one powerful “super app.”

Launched by Tencent in 2011, WeChat now has over 1.41billion monthly active users, making it almost impossible to live, travel, or work in China without it.

What Is WeChat?

In simple terms, WeChat is an all-in-one mobile platform.
Chinese users rely on it to:

• Send text, voice, and video messages
• Share daily life moments with friends
• Pay for shopping, transportation, and utilities
• Transfer money and send digital red packets
• Follow official accounts for news and services
• Book taxis, order food, and even visit hospitals

For many people in China, WeChat is not optional — it is essential.

10 Things You Should Know About WeChat

1️⃣ WeChat Is Part of Everyday Routine

Most users open WeChat many times a day to stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues. It is often the first app people check in the morning and the last one before bed.

2️⃣ Its Popularity Comes from “Doing Everything”

WeChat became dominant because it integrates communication, payments, and services into one seamless experience.

3️⃣ Unread Message Notifications Are Hard to Ignore

The small red notification badge encourages frequent app usage and creates a strong habit among users.

4️⃣ Stickers Are a Key Part of Communication

Chatting without stickers feels incomplete for many users, especially younger generations. Emotions are often expressed through images rather than text.

5️⃣ Posting on Moments Is a Daily Ritual

Travel photos, meals, selfies, and social activities are commonly shared on WeChat Moments, serving as a personal life diary.

6️⃣ “Likes” Have Become a Lightweight Social Signal

Even without active conversations, liking friends’ posts is a common way to maintain social connections.

7️⃣ WeChat Pay Has Replaced Cash

From supermarkets and restaurants to taxis and street vendors, WeChat Pay is widely accepted across China, greatly reducing the need for cash.

8️⃣ Digital Red Packets Are a Nationwide Trend

Sending and grabbing red packets during festivals, especially Chinese New Year, has become a modern digital tradition.

9️⃣ Subscription Accounts Are a Major Source of Information

News, lifestyle tips, company updates, and public services are delivered through WeChat official and subscription accounts.

🔟 Social Commerce Is Common on WeChat

Many users sell products through Moments and chat groups, creating opportunities — but also challenges such as advertising overload and counterfeit goods.