In brief: Bytedance is reportedly launching a messaging app to take on WeChat

Toutiao parent company Bytedance is planning to launch a messaging app as the firm sets its sights on WeChat and escalates its rivalry with tech giant Tencent, according to Chinese media. The service, dubbed Flipchat, is going to take the form of an independent app, people close to the matter said, adding that Bytedance has approached several senior staff members on WeChat’s team.

Bytedance declined to comment on the news. The company acquired the English domain name “flipchat.cn” on October 22 through a Chengdu-based subsidiary.

Source: Technode