Wechat

What is WeChat?

WeChat (Wēixìn, 微信) is a social messaging app developed by Tencent (腾讯) starting in 2011.

It is available for both Android and iOS devices.

It can be used to chat with other people who also have Wechat. You can also send voice messages, start voice or video calls, have group conversations, and even share photos, videos, or web sites.

To sign up for an account, you need a mobile phone number. Wechatallows you to log in via SMS (or text message verification).

Good and Bad

There are several things,both good and bad, about WeChat.The good:- It is extremely simple to use. Almost everything is integrated within the

app.- It is simple to log in as well.- It has several features inspired by East Asian culture that are fun. One

example is sending Red Packets to people in your friend list.

The bad:- It is messy or confusing when you change devices or phone numbers.

Without proper preparation you might lose access to your account or conversation histories.

- It has some censorship. Since the servers are managed in China, some websites, services, or keywords are removed or blocked.

- It uses up your phone’s storage. Since voice messages and videos take up memory, this can fill up fast.

Account

When you first open the app, you will see the login screen. You only need to log in once, and it will automatically do that from then on.

If you do not have an account, you can create one using your phone number. It is preferable to have a mobile phone number so you can receive texts to log in.

If you do have an account, you can skip Sign Up and just go Log In.

There are also language settings on the top right corner.

Account Creation

To sign up, you will give a name, country, phone number, and password.

Once you’ve done that, hit Sign Up, and then you will be sent a text message with a verification code.

Put that verification code into the app, and you’re done!

Account Login

To log in, give your country, phone number, and password.

If you forget your password, you can log in via SMS (or text message). This requires you to have access to your number.

Once you’re verified and logged in, you’re done!

Chats

Your list of chats, including group chats. Conversation histories are here as well.

Chat Window

The participants in the conversation.

More info (like adding/removing people, or muting notifications).

Switch between voice or keyboard.

Send stickers or emoticons.

Send other things. (Next slide)

Type a message or press to talk.

More Chat Functions

Send location info.

Send a contact’s information.

Send something that you have favorited.

Record and send a quick no-audio clip.

Send an image.

Request a video call.

Request an audio call.

Contacts

Your list of confirmed friends. Group conversation contacts that you have saved are also here.

Discover

This is where you can see extra functions, posts, or find people nearby.

Me > Profile

In Profile, you can set up your basic information like gender, location, name, and also your photo.

Me > SettingsIn Settings, you can set up various functions that affect the WeChat app.

Some useful examples include silent hours under Do Not Disturb, and changing your phone number or password in My Account.

Cleaning and Storage

Because Wechat stores information on your phone, it eventually builds up and needs to be cleared.

First, go to General:

To clear up your storage for use, you will need to do it yourself by following these steps.

Cleaning and Storage (Cont.)

Then, go to Manage Storage:

And then you’ll see Wechat’s storage use in green.

Finally, click on Manage Storage to select what to delete.