On February 15, WeChat quietly initiated a phased rollout test, integrating the DeepSeek-R1 large language model.
During this phased testing period, only a select group of users will have access to the new feature. Users can check if they are part of the test group by clicking on the search bar at the top of the WeChat main interface to see if the "AI Search" option appears. Once inside the "AI Search" feature, users will find an input box along with two options: "Quick Answers" and "Deep Thinking." The former offers fast and efficient responses, while the latter leverages the DeepSeek-R1 model to provide more comprehensive answers after a longer processing time.
It is worth noting that the WeChat "AI Search" function includes an open-source statement, clarifying its reliance on the DeepSeek open-source large language model and expressing gratitude to the DepthSeek company and the DeepSeek open-source community for their contributions to the development and research of large models.
Regarding WeChat's integration of DeepSeek, relevant Tencent representatives have confirmed that while WeChat’s search function utilizes the HUNYUAN large model to enrich AI search capabilities, it has recently begun a phased rollout test incorporating DeepSeek. Users included in the phased rollout can see the "AI Search" label at the top of the chat window and freely use the full version of the DeepSeek-R1 model, enhancing their search experience with more diverse options.
Tencent stated that the data sources for WeChat AI Search include real-time online searches based on rich content from public accounts within the WeChat ecosystem as well as high-quality content across the web, providing users with more comprehensive and high-quality answers. Additionally, Tencent emphasized that AI Search integrates only publicly available information from public accounts and the internet, without using personal user data or privacy-related information.
Based on screenshots shared by users, the integration of DeepSeek into WeChat exhibits five key features: authentic response styles, support for consecutive questioning, richer citation sources, results with social functions, though currently lacking historical query and continuous Q&A support.
WeChat’s integration of DeepSeek was not unexpected, as Tencent has already made multiple moves embracing DeepSeek. Examples include the launch of DeepSeek-R1 on Tencent Cloud, the integration of DeepSeek into the intelligent workspace ima, and QQ Music adopting the full version of DeepSeek-R1. Moreover, updates to Tencent's Yuanbao App announced the full online deployment of the DeepSeek R1 model, making it an alternative product to WeChat’s "AI Search."
With WeChat’s integration of DeepSeek, the combination of this national-level application with one of the most advanced Chinese AI models is expected to spark greater innovation and further promote the popularization of AI technology. Considering WeChat’s vast ecosystem resources, future integrations of DeepSeek within AI search processes could deliver even smarter service experiences for users.
