TENCENT(HK:00700) 程序员的那些事·2025-12-19 00:48Core Viewpoint - Tencent's QQ has reintroduced a classic mode in its latest update, aiming to attract and retain users from the 80s and 90s generations by evoking nostalgia while also enhancing practical functionalities [2][3][5]. User Experience and Features - The update allows users to switch between a simplified efficiency mode and a classic mode that resembles the early 2000s QQ interface, which has been dubbed a "moyu tool" by users [3][4]. - New features include free access to a color palette for customization, the ability to batch import emoji packs, and migration of historical chat records, addressing previous user pain points [4][5]. User Engagement and Market Data - As of Q3 2025, QQ's mobile active user accounts have declined to 517 million, a drop of 8% year-on-year, while WeChat's combined active accounts reached 1.414 billion, marking a 2% increase [5][6]. - Historical data shows a steady decline in QQ's mobile active users from 800 million in 2018 to 517 million in 2025, indicating a need for strategic changes to retain users [6]. Strategic Implications - The reintroduction of the classic mode is seen as a defensive strategy to retain older users and attract them back to the platform through nostalgia and enhanced features [5][6].