Tencent launches AI microdrama service Lüpaopao inside WeChat

Tencent introduced Lüpaopao, a free short-drama service in WeChat offering AI-generated series alongside live-action and animated titles. ByteDance's Hongguo hit 168 million daily active users in July, up 107% year on year, surpassing the combined app-level audiences of Tencent Video, iQiyi, Youku and Mango TV. Global short-drama app usage reached 25 minutes a day in April 2026, up 85% from January 2025.

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Tencent launches AI microdrama service Lüpaopao inside WeChat

Hongguo reached 168M DAU in July, up 107% year on year
Short-drama app usage hit 25 minutes a day, up 85% since January 2025
Top 100 AI dramas on Douyin added 76.46B plays in September
Short-drama app downloads rose 140% year on year in Q1 2026

#Tencent#ByteDance#WeChat#Hongguo

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