WeChat app Availability may be a Problem for Chinese Users of the Huawei Watch Fit 3

The Watch Fit 3 was just released globally by Huawei. The 1.82-inch AMOLED display on the watch has a brightness of 1500 nits, a screen-to-body ratio of 77.4%, and a stylish design. Its battery life is rated for up to 10 days. As a competitive alternative in the smartwatch industry, it has a starting price of €160.

Initial Unboxings Show Off Absent Fan-Favorite Feature

On May 15, the smartwatch is expected to go on sale in China. But the Huawei Watch Fit 3 has encountered trouble with fitness tracker aficionados, just days before its official debut in China. Stores unpacking the smartwatch discovered that the much awaited WeChat smartwatch app isn't pre-installed, according to Weibo tipster "Uncle who looks at the mountain."

With the release of the specialized WeChat smartwatch app in July 2022, this news is disheartening. "The WeChat team itself created it, and among its many features were voice-to-text messaging, image viewing, voice replies, and animated emoticon support—all tailored especially for smartwatch users."

On forums like Pollen Club, netizens who were hoping to give up their phones for on-the-go communication their dismay, with some remarking that "there is still no WeChat." This annoyance is probably a result of using the Watch Fit 2. The WeChat app was apparently tested internally, but it was eventually canceled due to optimization problems.

The information that was leaked merely indicates that the program isn't pre-installed. Below are two scenarios that could occur: Following launch, Huawei may distribute the WeChat app via over-the-air (OTA) update. Prior to launch, this strategy would enable more optimization and issue corrections. Alternatively, the software might already be pre-installed on the retail version that China's stores will start carrying on May 15.

However, the lack of confirmed WeChat support casts a shadow over the launch. With WeChat being a dominant communication platform in China, its absence on a smartwatch can be a significant drawback for many users.