WeChat is the third-most-popular messaging app coming only behind WhatsApp and Messenger with over 1.2 billion active users. The majority of this app’s user base is from China as many other messenger apps are banned in China, including WhatsApp and FB Messenger.
Features-wise this app is much more than a messaging app, you can order food, call for a taxi, play games, and so much more. It’s like an all-in-one app in China, this is why some of these features will be unavailable if you’re using this app outside of China. A full list of features is given further below in this post.
As of now, WeChat is available on Android, iOS, Windows (whether desktop or laptop), or Mac. You can download WeChat setup files for both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows versions via our direct links. Guides on the download, installation, and initial setup process of the WeChat for PC app are also provided below if you’re interested in that.
How to Download and Install WeChat For PC
Before you can begin the installation of WeChat for PC, you’ll need to get the WeChat for PC download, this can be done by clicking on “Free Download” at the top of this page. We have provided both 32-bit and 64-bit versions so choose which suits your needs.
Note: You must have an active account of WeChat on Android/iOS to start using Windows WeChat, as it is not a standalone app.
If you don’t have an active mobile account on this app then that’s a bigger problem as you need an invitation from an existing WeChat user to sign up.
Step 1: Next launch the WeChat setup, put a check next to the terms box, and click on Install to begin the installation.
Step 2: Wait for the installation to complete.
Step 3: Once the installation is complete, click on Run and the app will launch.
Step 4: To begin using the WeChat app, scan the QR code shown on your PC from the mobile WeChat app.
Key Features of WeChat
Messaging and Communication:
- Individual Chats: Send and receive text, photo, video, and voice messages with individual contacts.
- Group Chats: Create and participate in group chats with up to 500 members.
- Moments: Share photos, videos, and text updates with your friends on a social media-like feed.
- Voice and Video Calls: Make high-quality voice and video calls to individuals or groups.
- Voice Notes: Send voice messages for quick and convenient communication.
- Stickers and GIFs: Express yourself creatively with a vast collection of animated stickers and GIFs.
- Walkie-Talkie: Enjoy real-time voice communication like a walkie-talkie.
- Message Recall: Withdraw sent messages within a 2-minute window.
- Search: Easily find specific messages, contacts, or moments using keywords.
Social Features:
- Official Accounts: Follow brands, businesses, and public figures for updates and information.
- Mini Programs: Access a wide range of mini-apps within the app for various functionalities like shopping, food ordering, and transportation.
- Shake: “Shake” your phone to find nearby friends who also have the app enabled.
- People Nearby: Discover and connect with other WeChat users in your area.
- Drift Bottle: Send a message in a “bottle” that can be found by random users, allowing you to connect with new people in a fun way.
Additional Features:
- Payments: Send and receive money through WeChat Pay (微信支付) (limited to certain regions).
- File Sharing: Share various file types like documents, images, and videos.
- Location Sharing: Share your real-time location with contacts.
- Favorites: Save frequently used photos, videos, links, and files for easy access.
- Games: Play casual games within the app.
- Language Translation: Translate messages and content within chats using the built-in translation feature.
- Backup and Restore: Backup your chat history and data for safekeeping and restoration.
- Screenshot Tool: Capture screenshots directly within the app.
- Customization: Personalize your chat experience with themes, chat backgrounds, and notification sounds.
- Security: Enjoy secure communication with features like message encryption and two-factor authentication.
- Built-In Updater: Check for any latest available WeChat updates, click on the About button in settings, and check if there is a new update.
Note: Some features, like WeChat Pay and Mini Programs, might have regional availability limitations and the Windows version of WeChat may not have all the features of the mobile app.
Starting a Chat In WeChat
The visual interface of the app is very straightforward. Click on the Chat button and see active conversation or click on the Contact button and start a new conversation. If you can’t find the contact whom you want to chat with, just search for him/her by clicking on the + button.
How to Delete a WeChat Account?
You can easily delete a WeChat account but if you wish to sign up again then you’ll an invite from another existing WeChat user again.
To delete your WeChat account, follow our easy 5-step guide below.
- Log in to WeChat.
- Select Me and then select Settings.
- Navigate to Account.
- Select Delete Account and then tap Next.
- Follow WeChat’s instructions and enter your password to delete your account.
Final Thoughts – A Complete Package
This free online communication app is the only option if you are living in or decided to visit China. No other online chat app works in China unless you utilize a VPN like NordVPN, Express VPN, or SurfShark VPN.
The Tencent developer has worked so hard to strengthen its privacy, and firewall features, making it a safe, free, and fast communication and social app. Furthermore, the extra features only strengthen this app, especially in China. Apart from that, WeChat is a good alternative to WhatsApp, Instagram, and Messenger.
