China's essential "super app," combining messaging, payments, social media, and countless integrated services into one platform used by nearly everyone. About WeChat: WeChat (微信) is a messaging app that has grown into China's central digital platform, so deeply integrated into daily life that it's used for everything from chatting and calling to paying bills, booking services, and interacting with businesses via Official Accounts. Key Features: Messaging and Calls: Free voice and video calls, group chats, and Moments (a social feed feature). WeChat Pay: A built-in digital wallet used for nearly all in-person and online payments in China. Mini-Programs: Lightweight apps within WeChat for everything from ordering food to government services. Official Accounts: Businesses and services communicate with users through dedicated WeChat accounts. How to Get Started: Download WeChat and register with a phone number. Add contacts by phone number, QR code, or WeChat ID. Link a Chinese bank card to activate WeChat Pay, if eligible. Explore Mini-Programs and Official Accounts relevant to daily needs like food delivery or transport. Important Notice: WeChat is so central to daily life and business in China that not having it can make many everyday and professional interactions difficult — however, activating WeChat Pay generally requires a Chinese bank account, which foreign short-term visitors may not have.