Now that we've covered what WeChat is and how it works, and you’ve read our article on WeChat safety, it’s time to learn about the potential costs of WeChat. Is WeChat free, and will it cost me money to use it over time? These are questions we’ll answer in this article, as we explain all the potential costs associated with WeChat, so you don’t break the bank using this popular messaging app.
How much does WeChat cost?
WeChat is free to download, install, sign up for, and use as a messaging app and communication platform. Sending instant messages, images, voice calls, voice recordings, video calls, and some additional information is all free, no matter how long you talk, or how frequently you are using the WeChat app.
You need only a working connection to the Internet for WeChat to work, so you don’t even need a complex or functioning phone plan to make voice calls to other users. WeChat can save you lots of money on messaging, especially if you are travelling or visiting other countries. Rather than getting a temporary phone plan, you can message your friends and family on the go, and take WeChat with you all over the world.
Beware a rising Internet data bill
One potential cost of WeChat to consider is that because it uses the Internet, if you do not have an unlimited Internet plan, or you use WeChat on your mobile device on your data plan, it can use up your monthly available usage quite quickly, especially if you like to make video calls, which is one of the best features of the app.
Make sure to try to use WeChat on your unlimited monthly Internet plan, or connect in areas with free WiFi, especially when using the video chat function.
If it’s free, how does WeChat make its money?
WeChat makes its money through the sale of in-app products such as emojis and stickers that you can add to spruce up your conversations with other users. Though these in-app purchases are small (usually only a few dollars), with over 600 million registered users, these yearly earnings can reach into the billions.
You are never required to pay for any of WeChat’s services, and they will never ask you to enter your financial information into the app, in an email, or by any other means. If you receive contact from WeChat asking for this information, this is a scam; do not respond to the message or click on any links sent to you.
And that’s our rundown of how much WeChat costs. If you think it may be right for you, be sure to check out our next article where we review the app, to help you decide. If you’re already convinced that WeChat is for you, try reading our step-by-step tutorial on how to download and install WeChat here.
