How do I switch from WeChat to Weixin?

Switching from WeChat to Weixin: A Comprehensive Guide

WeChat and Weixin are two popular messaging apps developed by Tencent, but they cater to different target audiences. WeChat is geared towards global users, while Weixin is designed specifically for users in mainland China. If you’re a Chinese national or plan to spend an extended period in China, you may want to consider switching from WeChat to Weixin for a more tailored experience.

Step 1: Verifying Your Identity

The key difference between WeChat and Weixin lies in their account verification process. WeChat allows users to register with either a mobile phone number or an email address. However, Weixin requires users to link their account to a Chinese mainland mobile phone number for verification.

Step 2: Changing Your Linked Phone Number

To transition from WeChat to Weixin, you need to link your WeChat account to a Chinese mainland mobile phone number. Follow these steps:

1. Open the WeChat app on your device.
2. Go to the “Me” tab.
3. Tap on the gear icon (Settings).
4. Select “Account Security.”
5. Tap on “Change Linked Mobile Phone Number.”
6. Enter your new Chinese mainland mobile phone number.
7. Enter the verification code sent to your new phone number.

Step 3: Downloading Weixin

Once you have linked your WeChat account to a Chinese mainland mobile phone number, you can download the Weixin app from the Apple App Store (for iOS devices) or the Google Play Store (for Android devices).

Step 4: Logging Into Weixin

After installing Weixin, open the app and tap on the “Log In” button. Enter your WeChat account information (username and password). Weixin will automatically detect that your account is already linked to a Chinese mainland mobile phone number and grant you access.

Additional Notes:

• Your WeChat contacts will not be automatically transferred to Weixin. You must manually add your contacts by searching for their usernames or scanning their QR codes.
• Some features available on WeChat may not be available on Weixin, as Weixin is subject to the regulations of the Chinese government.
• If you frequently travel outside of China, you may want to consider keeping both WeChat and Weixin installed on your device to ensure you can stay connected with your global contacts while also accessing local services in China.