WeChat deserves more of your attention than WhatsApp: Here's why
Ever since the dawn of smartphone age, WhatsApp has been serving as our irreplaceable messaging tool, keeping us connected with friends, family. The app has grown on us in such a way, it's hard to skip a day without looking at our chats. Nearly a billion people use WhatsApp, daily. But, is this the best offering for internet messaging at present? Let's find out.
WhatsApp v/s WeChat, the messaging giant from China
Though WhatsApp has a humongous user base, it is hard to ignore the competition it faces from WeChat, a China-based messaging service. WeChat was launched soon after WhatsApp's entry, and has now evolved into a multipurpose app for social media enthusiasts. It is used by a billion people worldwide, offering features that you won't find on WhatsApp or on any other service. Here's more.
Browse on WeChat with in-built web search capabilities
WeChat not just serves as a messaging app, but also offers a social 'search' feature. The option, available in the 'Discover' section, lets you search a random topic within the app. For instance, if you search for 'Apple', you'll get recent news reports related to the company followed by Apple-related information shared by any of your contacts. WhatsApp doesn't have any option like this.
Try mini programs or sub-applications
While WhatsApp connects you with business accounts, WeChat practically offers business services with its 'mini programs'. These are sub-applications you can use right within the WeChat app for shopping, ordering food, or even gaming. Tesla, for instance, offers a mini-program for letting users locate charging stations, share feedback, or schedule a test drive. Mini programs can also be accessed from the 'Discover' section.
Find more friends on WeChat
On WhatsApp, you need to have an individual's number to connect with them, but WeChat comes with a range of additional options. For instance, there is a feature called 'Shake' that connects you with a random user who is also looking for a new contact. You can even use the 'People Nearby' option to conduct a localized search and find people in your vicinity.
Drift or pick message bottles from strangers
WeChat comes with a unique feature called 'Drift Bottle'. Here, you can write a text/voice message and leave it in the virtual ocean of internet for anybody to pick up. The feature is similar to throwing a real bottle into ocean, but has to be enabled from the Settings menu. Once activated, you can either send your own message or pick somebody else's.
Our take: WeChat is an explored bundle
If you're looking for a fun way to converse and stay connected, WeChat could definitely be your thing. The app doesn't match WhatsApp in terms of user-base, but there are some really cool features waiting to be explored, including Drift Bottle (our favorite). It is available on Google Play Store and Apple Store.
