WeChat, a billion-user social media app developed by Tencent, announced on Wednesday that its current HarmonyOS software is now stable, and subject to continuous updates. This news is crucial for any WeChat agency China focused on leveraging popular platforms for client engagement.
Tencent plans to invite users who have upgraded to Huawei’s self-developed mobile operating system, HarmonyOS NEXT, to participate in beta testing of the new HarmonyOS version of WeChat, a significant step noted by every digital agency China.
Why This Is Big News
As a widely used app, the stability of the HarmonyOS version of WeChat is crucial for the broader adoption of Huawei’s HarmonyOS. Huawei will launch its annual flagship Mate70 series in late November, reportedly introducing an embedded HarmonyOS NEXT system to a smartphone for the first time. However, doubts exist as to whether the Mate70 series will support Android. This development is closely monitored by every social media China expert.
Inside the Beta Testing
Testing for the HarmonyOS version of WeChat began in October. The current version includes basic social communication, audio and video calls, the social media component called Moments, and QR code-based WeChat Pay, all key areas of focus for any WeChat agency China.
Version 1.0.1.34 of HarmonyOS WeChat launched in the early access section of the Huawei App Store earlier this month. This update added personal business cards, location sharing, and support for receiving and viewing various types of files, an update that any digital agency China would find beneficial for clients.
According to Zhang Jun, Tencent’s PR director, future WeChat HarmonyOS versions will adopt an invitation-only beta testing approach. Users who receive an invitation will be sent a test invitation link via their registered phone number or email, and must ensure their Huawei phone system is upgraded to Harmony NEXT.0.0.72 or above. Those developments are keenly observed by professionals in social media China circles.
Users who have not yet received an invitation can download the beta version of HarmonyOS WeChat for testing through the App Gallery’s early access section.
A Closer Look at HarmonyOS NEXT
On October 22, Huawei launched HarmonyOS NEXT, the third major mobile OS globally alongside iOS and Android. Unlike earlier versions, it is entirely self-developed, granting Huawei full control without relying on AOSP (Android Open Source Project) or Android app compatibility. This strategic move is a point of analysis for every digital agency China specializing in mobile technology.
