What Is QQ? How to Use QQ Outside China? [Complete Guide]

QQ is one of China’s most popular instant messaging platforms, with over 500 million monthly active users. With over 60% of QQ users under the age of 25, it’s incredibly popular among younger users. Beyond basic chat functionality, QQ offers a wide range of features, including file transfer, voice/video calls, Qzone, games, and entertainment.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about QQ, including its key features and how to download and use it safely outside of China.

What Is QQ?

QQ is a popular instant messaging and social media platform developed by Tencent in China. Originally launched in 1999 as OICQ, it was later renamed QQ and quickly became one of the most popular applications of the 21st century. Similar to WhatsApp or Snapchat, Tencent QQ offers messaging, voice and video calls, music, games, shopping, and a blog-like feature called Qzone.

Today, QQ remains one of China’s largest social media platforms, with over 700 million monthly active users, and is particularly popular among Generation Z. Younger users prefer QQ because it offers a more private online space and richer functionality compared to WeChat.

Key Features of QQ

QQ has evolved from a simple instant messaging tool into a versatile social platform. Here are some of the key features that make Tencent QQ particularly popular:

• Instant Messaging and Calling: QQ supports text chat, voice messaging, and high-quality video calling, similar to WhatsApp or WeChat.
• QQ Zone: A blog-like social space where users can post, share photos, comment, and send virtual gifts.
• Entertainment Center: QQ integrates online games, music streaming, and even shopping services.
• QQ Mail: Users can access the email service directly through their QQ ID, providing convenient and fast access.
• Customization Options: Users can personalize their profile, theme, and avatar, which appeals to younger users.

How to Download QQ Outside China?

While QQ is one of China’s largest social media platforms, some of its features and services may not be fully accessible outside of mainland China. If you want to use QQ without restrictions, follow these two methods:

Step 1: Download QQ

• Mobile users: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for “QQ.” Download and install this app.
• Desktop users: Visit im.qq.com to download the Windows or macOS version.

Note: If QQ is not available in your app store due to regional restrictions, you’ll need to switch your app store region or use a VPN.

Step 2: Register a QQ account

1. Open the QQ app and tap “Register.”
2. Select your region and enter your mobile number.
3. Enter the verification code sent to your phone via SMS.
4. Choose a username, set a password, and complete your profile.

Currently, QQ only supports mobile phone number registration in the following 4 regions:

• China +86
• Hong Kong SAR China +852
• Macau SAR China +853
• Taiwan China +886

If you’re having trouble registering with your phone number, you can using a virtual number to receive verification codes.

Step 3: Set your language preference

• Go to “Settings” → “General.”
• Click “Language” and select “English.”

Step 4: Start using QQ

Now you can start using QQ outside of China:

• Send texts, voice messages, and video calls.
• Post blogs, share photos, and interact with your social network.
• Play games and listen to music.
• Explore groups and interest-based chats to meet new people.

Troubleshooting Download QQ

Even if you successfully unblock QQ, you may still encounter login errors or slow connection speeds. Here are some tips to help you use QQ more smoothly outside of China:

• Use a stable Chinese server: Always connect to a VPN server in mainland China and avoid frequent IP switching for stable use.
• Enable multi-device login protection: Link your QQ account to your phone number or email address to avoid being locked out.
• Reduce latency in voice/video calls: Choose a VPN server geographically close to you but still located in China (such as Hong Kong or Guangzhou) to improve call quality.
• Update QQ regularly: Make sure your QQ app or desktop client is updated to the latest version.

How to Use QQ Outside China?

After successfully downloading and registering QQ, you can start exploring its features. Here’s how to get the most out of QQ:

1. Messages and Calls

• Text and Voice Messaging: Tap the chat window to send an instant text message, or press and hold the microphone icon to send a voice message.
• Video and Voice Calls: Open the chat window and tap the phone or camera icon to start a high-quality call. For a smoother calling experience, connect your VPN to a Chinese server to reduce latency.
• File Sharing: QQ supports sending photos, videos, and transferring large files.

2. QQ Zone

• Posting: Share status updates, photos, or longer blog posts.
• Interacting with Friends: Like, comment, and send virtual gifts.
• Decorate: Customize your QQ Zone by changing images and adding special effects.

3. Entertainment in QQ

• QQ Music: Play music directly within the app.
• Mini Games: Play online games and invite friends to join.
• Shopping and Services: Access QQ’s integrated e-commerce and digital services to purchase items.

4. Groups and Communities

• Join Interest Groups: Search for public groups based on interests, learning, or business topics.
• Create Your Own Groups: Create private groups with friends, colleagues, or classmates.
• Manage Notifications: Use group settings to mute chats or highlight important messages.

QQ vs WeChat: Is QQ Better than WeChat?

When it comes to Chinese social media, WeChat is generally more popular. But that doesn’t mean QQ has lost its importance. Let’s take a look at the differences between the two apps:

• Audience and Popularity: WeChat is China’s most mainstream social media app, used by over a billion people. QQ is more popular among younger users, who appreciate its playful design and customizable avatars.
• Core Functionality: WeChat focuses on practicality. It’s an all-in-one tool for messaging, payments, work groups, and official brand accounts. QQ focuses more on social interaction and entertainment.
• Privacy and Freedom: A key reason why Generation Z prefers QQ is privacy. On WeChat, your social life often overlaps with family, school, or work. QQ offers younger users a private corner where they can express themselves more freely.

So, is QQ better than WeChat?

If you’re looking for a professional, all-in-one lifestyle app, WeChat is the best choice. However, if your goal is to connect with younger users, play games, or enjoy a more private and creative social space, QQ may be a better platform for you.

Is QQ Safe for My Computer?

Downloading QQ from the official website or app store is generally safe, so as long as it’s installed correctly, there’s no need to worry about malware.

The real concern with QQ is privacy and data security. Unlike WhatsApp, which uses end-to-end encryption by default, or Telegram, which offers stronger protection, QQ doesn’t offer end-to-end encryption for regular chats. This means your messages are encrypted in transit, but Tencent’s servers can access all of your information.

As such, QQ is better suited for casual chatting and entertainment. However, if you’re serious about privacy, WhatsApp or Telegram are safer options.

Read more: Is WhatsApp Safe? WhatsApp Review

FAQ about QQ

1. Can I use QQ outside China?

Yes. QQ International is available worldwide, but some features may be limited. To fully utilize QQ abroad, you can connect to a Chinese server via a VPN. This allows you to access Qzone, QQ Music, and other content restricted to China.

2. Are QQ messages encrypted?

QQ encrypts messages during transmission, but it does not provide end-to-end encryption for regular chats. This means Tencent can technically access the content.

3. Do I need a Chinese phone number to register QQ?

No, QQ now allows registration with international numbers. However, a Chinese number makes verification and account recovery easier.