Tencent readies launch of WeChat for work
Tencent is getting ready to launch a Slack-like tool for the workforce called Enterprise WeChat, or Qiye Weixin.
According to a Q&A on QQ Tech at the end of last week, the service is still in beta but is scheduled to be rolled out over the next couple of months.
Tencent has stated that the launch is all about helping people achieve a better work-life balance.
The business said: “With WeChat being widely adopted in everyday life, more people have been discussing work-related subjects on WeChat with colleagues when they are off-work. While some enjoy it, some others find it a burden because WeChat mixes up their personal life and work.”
The fast-paced nature of business now means workplaces need a non-email messaging solution, something that hasn’t been lost on either Facebook or LinkedIn as both launched a similar service to market leader Slack in the past year.
Facebook has since signed up major brands to Facebook at Work, including Heineken and RBS.
In China, Alibaba Group has also already launched a similar app DingTalk, but aimed at the small to medium-sized business market. According to the latest company statement, it already has over 1 million enterprise users.