| Developer(s) | Tencent |
|---|---|
| Initial release | 2015, in China |
| Platform | Android (open-source) |
| Type | app store, digital distribution, mobile game store |
| Website | sj |
Tencent Appstore (Chinese: 英用库, romanized: Yīngyòngbāo) is a Chinese app distribution platform developed and operated by Tencent, one of the largest technology companies in the world. The app store is one of the most popular platforms in China for downloading mobile applications and games, with millions of daily active users. Yingyongbao primarily serves users of Android devices in the Chinese market, where Google Play Store has limited availability due to government restrictions.
History
Tencent Appstore was launched in 2012 as part of Tencent's broader strategy to dominate the mobile internet ecosystem in China. It emerged as one of the key competitors in the Chinese app distribution market alongside platforms like Huawei AppGallery, Xiaomi's Mi App Store, and Baidu App Store.
Since its launch, Yingyongbao has expanded its user base significantly, leveraging Tencent's ecosystem, which includes popular products like WeChat (Weixin) and QQ. Its integration with Tencent's other services has further solidified its position as a leading app marketplace in China.
Awards
In 2015, Tencent App Store won the Golden Plume Award for "Most Influential Channel Provider".
Features
Yingyongbao offers a variety of features tailored for Chinese users and developers:
- Extensive app library: The platform hosts a wide array of applications, including mobile games, social media apps, utility tools, and educational applications.
- Gaming focus: Tencent's leadership in the gaming sector is reflected in Yingyongbao's prominence as a hub for mobile games, including exclusive pre-releases and updates for Tencent's own games like Honor of Kings and PUBG Mobile.
- Developer support: Yingyongbao provides tools and services to app developers, including analytics, monetization options, and promotional support within Tencent's ecosystem.
- Security and quality assurance: The app store includes robust malware detection and app verification mechanisms to ensure user safety.
- Social integration: Applications downloaded through Yingyongbao can easily integrate with Tencent's social media platforms, WeChat and QQ, allowing seamless sharing and engagement.
Market share and growth
As of 2025, Yingyongbao remains one of the largest app distribution platforms in China, with a significant market share. It benefits from Tencent's massive user base and strong developer relationships. In a market where Google Play is not fully accessible, Yingyongbao competes with domestic rivals to meet the needs of China's 1.4 billion population. As of 2024, Tencent Appstore had 187 million monthly active users.
Challenges and criticism
Like many tech platforms operating in China, Yingyongbao faces challenges related to regulatory compliance and censorship. Developers are required to adhere to strict guidelines set by the Chinese government, and content deemed inappropriate or politically sensitive is often removed.
Additionally, the competitive landscape in China's app market has led to concerns over exclusivity deals and Tencent's dominance, which some critics argue stifles competition.[citation needed]
See also
References
- ^ "Microsoft launches Tencent App Store Zone in Windows Store for Chinese users". Technode. 14 November 2024. Retrieved 27 January 2025.
- ^ "2017大数据产业峰会在京召开 应用宝获首批可信应用商店认证-千龙网·中国首都网". tech.qianlong.com. Retrieved 2025-01-27.
- ^ "小游戏,7k7k小游戏,小游戏大全,双人小游戏 - www.7k7k.com". 7K7K小游戏. Retrieved 2025-01-27.
- ^ Thomala, Lai Lin (30 November 2024). "Number of monthly active user number (MAU) of the leading third-party app stores in China in September 2024". Statista. Retrieved 27 January 2025.
- ^ "央视曝光十大恶意手机应用：腾讯360等均被点名". hb.ifeng.com. Retrieved 2025-01-27.