WeChat begins HarmonyOS NEXT beta testing

Tencent has started the WeChat HarmonyOS NEXT app version testing for some users. The company is rolling out invitations to random individuals, calling them out to inspect and explore a few interesting features of the new application version.

WeChat is a Chinese social media app that gives access to messaging and payment operations. Users can share messages, stickers, images, or make voice/video calls.

As of now, the respective app adapted to the native HarmonyOS ecosystem with new features and smart services. Tencent has announced the WeChat HarmonyOS NEXT app testing for some users. It is also sending invitations that read:

“On October 8, the WeChat HarmonyOS native version officially started invitation-based internal testing. Users who have upgraded to the latest HarmonyOS NEXT software system will be the first to experience it (after receiving the invitation).”

Note that the company is sending the beta testing invitation to random users. It states that those who have not received the notification yet can wait patiently. They will soon be able to log in to the “early adopter version” of the app.

WeChat begins HarmonyOS NEXT beta testing (Image Credits: Weibo)

The invitation further reveals that the current beta app version offers some basic features to users. For instance, social networking, seamless audio, and video calls, Moments (a tool that allows sharing images, videos, and texts with friends), WeChat Pay QR code, and other payment-related functionalities.

Apart from the WeChat app, more than 20 Tencent apps adapted to the HarmonyOS native version. The list includes QQ, Tencent Meeting, Tencent Video, Tencent News, Tencent Sports, QQ Browser, Enterprise WeChat, QQ Music, and more.

These are and will be available for beta testing gradually. Meanwhile, users proceeding with the WeChat HarmonyOS NEXT beta testing should note some points.

Key Notes:

• Use the system browser on the HarmonyOS NEXT device to open the invitation link.
• Confirm that the device has the upgraded AppGallery.
• Tap ‘Start Testing’ to enter the app’s beta test program > participate in the test > install the test version.
• If the test details page doesn’t open, the release range of this version may not include the respective device. Please contact the developer for confirmation.

(source)