WeChat mini-programs are “sub-applications” within the WeChat ecosystem. They provide advanced features to users such as e-commerce, virtual store tour, task management, coupons, and other services. Some of the most popular WeChat miniprograms include Meituan Dianping, Didi, Mobike etc.
WeChat now has over one million such mini programs, so here are 5 popular ones you’ve (probably) never heard of.
1. WiFi One-Key Connect is an official mini program produced by Tencent.
This mini program allows you to connect to Wi-Fi signals for free in public places like airports, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and subways etc.
It’s a very useful tool if you’re travelling and don’t want to burn through your data plan while watching an episode of Peaky Blinders as you wait for the train.
How does it work?
The mini program holds a database of Wi-Fi passwords from all across China and is able to connect your device using those passwords.
First make sure WeChat is updated to the latest version.
Scan/long press the Qr code below (or search WiFi一键连 in wechat mini programs).
Select a WiFi connection marked “Unlocked” and you’re good to go!
2. WeChat Index: a key tool in your China digital audit
Ever wonder what’s trending on WeChat? Well now you can find out!
WeChat Index tool enables you to get a trend of mentions in the WeChat ecosystem.
In the Search Section, you can search for popular term trends and keywords on WeChat.
WeChat Index is helpful for both marketers and researchers in China, as it allows you to conduct basic keyword research in the China digital ecosystem.
This tool is quite similar to Google Trends
How does it work?
The algorithm factors the following data to give an overall measure of how much a keyword has been mentioned in WeChat:
- big data analysis
- mobile indexing of WeChat articles
- the exposure of shared articles
These metrics give a good overall picture of WeChat ecosystem trends as it captures more than just article mentions.
3. Tencent Surveys (search for 腾讯投票 in the mini program option)
Tencent Surveys is a very underrated mini program. If you want to create a poll or a short questionnaire, this mini program will generate one for you.
Super useful to organize events, answer quick questions, and gather quick statistics.
There is a range of surveys you can chose from, and you can have multiple choice answers or a simple “yes” or “no” answer choice, depending on your preference.
The interface is in Chinese, but it’s easy to get the hang of and you can create survey questions in any language.
4. Literacy with pictures
WeChat does have its own built-in translation option, but it can struggle with forms and handwritten text.
This OCR text recognition tool can scan the text of a book, magazine or image as well as handwritten notes to your mobile phone and convert it into text that can be modified and edited.
The recognition rate is good, and it supports word conversion, which can be converted individually by clicking on a certain part of the selected text.
The interface is in Chinese, but only takes a few minutes playing around with it to get the hang of it.
5. Sleepy sounds
If all that has tired you out and you need a nap, try Sleepy Sounds.
Insomnia? Trouble falling asleep? Snoring partner?
No problem! This mini program plays carefully selected soothing sounds to help you fall asleep like a baby.
Choose sounds like ocean waves, chirping insects or wood burning fires, set the play length, close your eyes and let yourself drift off to a good night’s sleep.
Related article: Sanya launches mobile payment program for tourists without the need for local bank card
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