Tencent launched WeChat in 2011.
WeChat was developed by Tencent and first released in January 2011 under the Chinese name Weixin. It began as a mobile messaging service and expanded into voice calls, video calls, social feeds, payments, mini programs, and other integrated services. The international name WeChat was adopted as the service expanded beyond China.
WeChat is often described as a “super-app” because many activities that might require separate apps elsewhere are available within one platform. Its payment system, WeChat Pay, became particularly important in China’s mobile-commerce ecosystem. WeChat and QQ are both Tencent products, but they are distinct services with different histories and user experiences.
Tencent’s market value is supported by a broad portfolio that includes games, online media, cloud services, advertising, and financial technology. WeChat is one of its most recognizable consumer products and a major part of its international identity.