Apple has announced the launch of its own online store on Tencent’s Chinese WeChat app. The company is looking to strengthen its position in the Chinese market, which remains one of the key markets in the world.
As of the third quarter of 2023, more than 1,2 billion users are registered on WeChat. The super app includes an instant messaging service and a host of integrated back-end apps for everyday life.
With the launch of the online store, Apple is offering WeChat customers its entire product lineup, including the iPhone 14, with free shipping and three-hour delivery. In addition, a smartphone trade-in service is also available.
Despite the strict control of retail channels, Apple has been actively developing various Chinese platforms in recent years. In particular, the company has its own store on Tmall. And the online store JD.com is an official reseller of Apple products.
Sales of Apple smartphones in the Chinese market remain low despite the general decline in consumer activity. In the first quarter of 2023, iPhone sales grew by 6%. Meanwhile, overall smartphone sales fell 5%, their lowest since 2014.
