What do Chinese use instead of WhatsApp?

 

When it comes to messaging apps, WhatsApp is a go-to platform for many around the world. However, in China, WhatsApp is not commonly used due to the country’s strict internet regulations and censorship laws. Instead, Chinese people rely on several other messaging platforms that cater to both personal and business communication needs. The most popular messaging app in China is WeChat (Weixin in Chinese).

This article explores WeChat and other messaging apps commonly used in China, their features, and why they are preferred over WhatsApp.

1. WeChat (微信) – The Super App of China

WeChat is undoubtedly the most popular and widely used messaging app in China. It’s not just a messaging app—it is a "super app" that combines social networking, financial services, entertainment, and more. Here’s why WeChat dominates in China:

  • Messaging: Like WhatsApp, WeChat allows text messaging, voice messaging, and multimedia sharing (photos, videos, documents). It also supports group chats with up to 500 members, which is perfect for both personal and business communications.

  • Voice and Video Calls: WeChat offers high-quality voice and video calls, which makes it a popular choice for both personal and work-related conversations.

  • WeChat Pay: One of WeChat’s most distinctive features is its integrated payment system—WeChat Pay. It allows users to send money, pay for services, and make purchases directly through the app, making it a vital part of daily life in China.

  • Mini Programs: WeChat supports mini-programs, which are small apps within the app itself. These mini-programs allow users to access third-party services like shopping, gaming, banking, food delivery, and even government services, all without leaving WeChat.

  • Moments: WeChat also includes a social media feature called "Moments", where users can share updates, photos, and videos with their friends.

Verdict: WeChat has become an essential tool for communication and daily activities in China. It is the primary alternative to WhatsApp, offering a more robust, multifunctional experience that caters to various needs beyond messaging.

2. QQ (腾讯QQ) – A Legacy App for Messaging

Before WeChat's rise to dominance, QQ was one of China’s most popular messaging platforms. Developed by Tencent, the same company that owns WeChat, QQ still holds significant popularity, especially among younger users and those who prefer its PC-based functionality.

  • Messaging & Multimedia Sharing: Like WeChat, QQ offers text messaging, voice messages, and the ability to share photos, videos, and files. It supports group chats with a large number of participants.

  • PC Integration: QQ has a desktop version that is widely used, especially by office workers and gamers. It’s seen as a more professional or formal communication tool compared to WeChat.

  • Gaming and Entertainment: QQ also offers access to a range of online games, music, and other entertainment services, making it a versatile platform.

While QQ has seen a decline in daily use compared to WeChat, it still holds value in certain areas, especially among teenagers and young adults.

Verdict: QQ is still a strong contender in China, particularly for those who need PC integration or are more engaged in gaming and entertainment within the app.

3. DingTalk (钉钉) – For Business Communication

DingTalk, developed by Alibaba, is a messaging app designed specifically for the business environment. While not a direct competitor to WhatsApp in the personal space, DingTalk has a significant user base in China for work-related communication.

  • Professional Communication: DingTalk provides an organized and secure environment for businesses to communicate, collaborate, and manage tasks. It’s equipped with features like task management, calendar integration, video calls, and file sharing.

  • Team Collaboration: With DingTalk, companies can create teams, assign tasks, and track progress. The app has integration with several Alibaba Cloud services, making it a comprehensive business communication tool.

  • Attendance and HR Features: It also offers attendance tracking and HR management features, which makes it highly popular in corporate China.

Verdict: DingTalk is the best option for business professionals in China looking for a communication platform that integrates well with office tasks, collaboration, and productivity tools.

4. Laiwang (来往) – Tencent's Attempt at Social Networking

Laiwang is another messaging app developed by Tencent, but it hasn’t gained the same level of traction as WeChat or QQ. It tries to combine messaging with social networking features, similar to WeChat and Facebook Messenger.

  • Messaging Features: Like WhatsApp, Laiwang offers basic messaging, voice calls, and video calls.

  • Social Networking: Laiwang focuses more on social networking, offering a feed where users can post updates and interact with their network.

While Laiwang was launched with the aim to compete with WeChat, it hasn’t become widely adopted and is mostly used by specific niches or users who prefer its features over the competition.

Verdict: Laiwang is a relatively minor player in the Chinese messaging app market compared to WeChat and QQ, but it does offer some unique features for users who prefer social networking elements.

5. Momo (陌陌) – Social Networking and Dating

Momo started as a dating app but has since evolved into a broader social networking platform that incorporates messaging features.

  • Group Chats and Messaging: Momo offers group chats, direct messaging, and multimedia sharing, similar to other messaging platforms.

  • Social Networking and Dating: Momo’s main focus is on connecting people for social and dating purposes. The app uses location-based features to help users meet people nearby.

  • Live Streaming: Momo also allows users to host live streams and connect with others in real time, further broadening its social capabilities.

Verdict: Momo is a great app if you’re looking for a combination of messaging and social networking, particularly if you’re interested in dating or meeting new people in China.

6. Skype and Other International Apps

While Skype and other international apps like Telegram and Line are available in China, their use is limited. These apps are often blocked or censored by the Great Firewall of China, which makes them less practical for Chinese users. However, some people use VPNs to bypass these restrictions and access international platforms.

Verdict: Skype and other international apps are available but aren’t widely used due to China’s internet regulations.

Conclusion: What Do Chinese People Use Instead of WhatsApp?

In China, WeChat is the most popular messaging app and the closest alternative to WhatsApp. With its all-in-one functionality, WeChat has become indispensable for daily communication, socializing, and even conducting business. While QQ and DingTalk cater to more specific user needs, WeChat remains the dominant platform for personal and professional interactions.

While WhatsApp is globally used for messaging and calls, Chinese users prefer local apps that are better suited to their needs, especially considering China's internet censorship laws and unique digital ecosystem.