Introduction
WeChat is a multi-purpose instant messaging, social media and mobile payment app developed by Tencent. First released in 2011, it became the world's largest standalone mobile app in 2018, with over 1 billion monthly active users. WeChat has been described as a "super app" because of its wide range of functions. WeChat provides text messaging, hold-to-talk voice messaging, broadcast (one-to-many) messaging, video conferencing, video games, sharing of photographs and videos and location sharing.
Capabilities, Benefits, and Key Features
- Search and add friends directly via WeChat ID or mobile number. Start chatting once your friend request has been accepted.
- Start a free chat anytime and anywhere
- On Moments, you can share your life's favorite experiences using photos or videos with your friends, and also see your friends' Moments at any time. Let's share on Moments!
- Get face-to-face with your friends and family instantly via WeChat. WeChat allows you make free video and voice calls no matter where you are with one friend or a group of friends.
- If you're unable to express your feelings in words, then send a sticker to make your chats more fun. Designed by talented artists around the globe, WeChat's Sticker Gallery offers users free downloads sending of countless fun stickers. Come and select your favorite stickers to chat with your friends!
Limitations / Technology Requirements
- Desktop Versions:
- Available for Microsoft Windows systems below Windows 7
- OR macOS with OS X 10.11 El Capitan and above
- OR access via web application
- Mobile Versions:
- Available to download via AppStore for iOS
- OR via Google Play or direct download for Android
What can I expect?
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Support Tier: Tier 1 - Best Effort: While approved for use there is no institutional support for the application. IT Help would make an effort to assist using general technical knowledge. If unable to do so, the user would need to resolve the issue on their own or contact a commercial vendor for assistance.
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Acquisition Model: Direct Download: Software is downloaded to a local computer and installed to run from that specific device.
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Licensing Model: Local user license: The license is included with the initial installation. In rare cases, a local license file may need updated periodically to contiue to use the application. Check the entry for that specific application for instructions to do so.
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Authentication Model: Independent Registration: The user is required to create an account individually with the application vendor.
Who may use it?
Authorized staffs and faculty in admission, International Student Support Services (ISSS), and other international related offices. While approved for specific use cases, this application is not broadly approved for use without consultation on the specific needs.
How do I get started?
Visit this page to find all the download links needed. There are 2 types of application you can choose from:
- Desktop Versions:
- Download the desktop application for Windows or macOS
- OR access via web application
- Mobile Versions:
- Available to download via AppStore for iOS
- OR via Google Play or direct download for Android
Is there a charge to me or my department?
There is no cost for the basic features of WeChat.