WeChat is a popular free messaging service, available on mobile and now Windows PCs. This desktop version allows you to chat and share files just like you can on the mobile versions. 

Connect with your mobile account

To use WeChat, you need to sign up for an account with your mobile number. This Windows version is an accompaniment to the mobile apps. To sign up, you simply download the app for your mobile device, enter your phone number and then enter the verification code you are sent.

Giving the app access to your contacts allows you to see who is already using WeChat. To use the Windows version, you have to open the mobile app, and take a photo of a QR code that appears on your screen. Once done. Wechat for Windows opens, looking and feeling very much like it's mobile relative.

Functional basic chat app

With WeChat, you can chat with your contacts via your desktop, and get notifications when someone is contacting you. You can also send files. File transfer is possibly more useful on Windows than on mobile devices (especially if you are an iOS user), as you can send any type of file you like through WeChat.

WeChat is fairly simple. Aside from text chat and file transfers, you can also send screenshots and emoji. The screenshot tool is good, automatically contracting around windows you hover over. Where WeChat falls behind other apps like Skype or Facebook Messenger is its lack of video or voice chat.

Stay connected without your phone

WeChat for Windows is a useful addition to the mobile apps, but note that you cannot use it without a mobile account. However, it's useful if you want to stay connected without looking at your phone!