Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-12-18 00:38Core Viewpoint - Elon Musk aims to transform the social platform X into a "WeChat++" outside of China, integrating various functionalities such as information dissemination and financial payments into a single application [3][6]. Group 1: Musk's Vision for X - Musk expressed admiration for WeChat, stating that in China, one can live entirely through WeChat, which combines messaging and payment functionalities [3][4]. - He envisions X as a highly integrated "super app" that allows users to perform a wide range of activities without switching applications [3][6]. Group 2: Challenges in Replicating WeChat's Model - The success of WeChat as a "digital life operating system" stems from its ability to integrate communication, payment, e-commerce, and more into one platform, which Musk recognizes as a valuable model [6][8]. - WeChat's success is attributed to its role as a "super connector," allowing businesses and creators to embed lightweight applications within its ecosystem, thus enhancing user experience and lowering service provision barriers [8][9]. Group 3: Cross-Platform Capabilities - WeChat's ability to operate seamlessly across various platforms (iOS, Android, HarmonyOS, Windows) enhances user loyalty and engagement, a feature that Musk finds appealing for X [9]. - If X can replicate WeChat's cross-platform logic, it may gain broader user acceptance globally, increasing its market competitiveness [9]. Group 4: Structural Barriers to Success - Musk's strategy to transition X towards a WeChat-like model faces significant structural challenges in the U.S. and global markets, where traditional internet services are well-established [11]. - The unique success of WeChat is linked to China's rapid mobile internet development, which differs from the established desktop internet landscape in the West, where users may not have a pressing need for an all-in-one app [11]. - Regulatory hurdles and a fragmented digital payment system in the U.S. complicate the creation of a unified service platform, and X's origins as a social media platform may dilute its core value if it attempts to integrate diverse functionalities [11].