It has been revealed this week that a major competitor to WhatsApp, the social messaging service which was recently bought by Facebook for a staggering $16 billion, is closing in on its 450 million monthly active users account.
This week it has been revealed that WeChat has already surpassed 355 million monthly users and is quickly gaining on the WhatsApp user count, currently the world’s most popular messaging app.
WeChat’s Rapid Growth
Figures released by Tencent, the company responsible for WeChat, showed that combined monthly active users of WeChat and its Chinese version Weixin had surpassed 355 million at the end of 2013, up 6 percent on the quarter. As you might guess, a majority of the user base is thought to be within China, but breakdown details of the monthly activity were not released with the results, so this has not been officially confirmed.
WeChat’s rapid growth can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the app offers a wide range of features beyond simple messaging. Users can make voice and video calls, share multimedia content, and even use the app for mobile payments. This multifunctionality makes it a one-stop solution for many users’ digital communication needs.
Global Expansion and Features
In addition to its messaging application, WeChat also rolled out its games service to the world in January of this year, providing users with a choice of games to play. This move has not only increased user engagement but also attracted a younger demographic who are keen on mobile gaming. The games service includes popular titles that are integrated within the app, allowing users to compete with friends and share their achievements.
WeChat has also been proactive in expanding its global footprint. The app is available in multiple languages and has been marketed aggressively in regions outside of China, including Southeast Asia, India, and even parts of Europe and the Americas. This international push has been supported by localized features and partnerships with local businesses and celebrities to make the app more appealing to users in different regions.
Moreover, WeChat has introduced several innovative features that set it apart from its competitors. For instance, the app includes a “Moments” feature, similar to Facebook’s timeline, where users can share photos, videos, and status updates with their friends. Another unique feature is the “Shake” function, which allows users to find and connect with other WeChat users nearby by simply shaking their phones.
For more information on the new results released regarding WeChat’s user base jump, you can visit the Tencent website for details.
Source: TNW
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