Recently, rumors have circulated online claiming that “the iPhone 16 might not support WeChat,” with warnings for users to avoid updating their systems. One user remarked, “Honestly, if it came down to a clash between WeChat and Apple, I don’t think Apple would stand a chance. WeChat is irreplaceable, whereas Apple can be easily swapped out.”
However, some netizens have questioned the validity of this claim, suggesting a different interpretation: “The rumor has been distorted. It’s not that WeChat won’t be supported, but rather that if Tencent refuses to pay Apple’s commission, the WeChat app could be removed from the Apple Store, making it impossible for iPhone users to install or update WeChat.”
According to a report by Zhengguan News on September 2nd, Apple’s official customer service clarified that WeChat is a widely used app, and the new iPhone models will not revoke permissions for apps that users have been regularly using. “We have not received any official notice suggesting that the iPhone 16 will not support WeChat,” the customer service representative assured.
Moreover, Shell Finance by The Beijing News reported that Apple’s technical advisor in China indicated that whether iOS systems or Apple devices can continue to support WeChat—and whether WeChat will remain available for download from the Apple App Store—depends on ongoing discussions between Apple and Tencent.
The technical advisor also explained that app developers might need to pay a fee to Apple for listing their software on the Apple App Store. “When an app reaches a certain number of downloads, the developer must pay Apple a fee for each download.”
Apple is reportedly in active discussions with Tencent to determine if Tencent will continue sharing revenue from WeChat downloads on the Apple App Store. Zhengguan News also reached out to Tencent, and a representative confirmed, “We have not received any such information.”
Additionally, Yicai Global reported from informed sources that this rumor is false. Previously, there were reports that Apple had increased pressure on Tencent and ByteDance to close loopholes in mini-game payments that allowed developers to direct users to external payment systems. Apple allegedly warned Tencent that if these issues were not resolved, they might block future WeChat updates.
In August, during an earnings call, Tencent’s management clarified that there is a misunderstanding regarding the situation, specifically noting that Tencent is not currently monetizing mini-games on iOS through bypassed in-app purchases, and discussions on this issue are ongoing.
