Apple announces its retail expansion in China with its official store on WeChat

Apple is planning to expand its retail presence in China by launching its digital store on China’s largest messaging platform -- WeChat. Using the service, buyers will be able to purchase the entire portfolio of Apple. Users can also access a couple of other services offered by the company. 

The app is also referred to as ‘super app’ as it moves beyond the messaging gestures via its Mini Programs. These Mini Programs are basically apps within WeChat which allows users to access a wide range of additional services right within the app, without having to download other apps and services. 

The Apple Store on WeChat is also a Mini Program and users will be able to purchase every program that Apple has to offer in the region.  

Tencent has announced that, in addition to buying products, users can also access some services like trade-in programs via WeChat Store. The company has further confirmed that on purchase of Apple products via WeChat, users will be eligible for free shipping as well as some users will even have the option to pay for three-hour delivery. 

Apple reportedly already has digital stores available in the Chinese market on Alibaba’ Tmall online marketplace. Apple also has the official store on the second-largest online retail store on JD.com.