TikTok’s domestic version, Douyin, is internally testing a new video chat function that allows users to have real-time, one-on-one video calls, Chinese media New Business Trend reported on Tuesday.
According to the report, the new social function, dubbed “Wire”, which matches users through the app’s algorithm recommendations, can currently only be accessed by certain Douyin users.
Netizens need to submit real names, phone numbers, and facial recognition information to enable Wire. The facial info is checked through Zhima Credit, a credit scoring system developed by Alibaba’s Ant Financial.
Douyin’s system will first match users based on their profile information, Douyin activities, and locations. If the two want to keep in touch with each other, they could later find each other in the app’s contact list.
ByteDance has confirmed to local tech media 36Kr that Wire is under small-scale beta testing.
This article is part of KrASIA’s “China Brief” section, where KrASIA’s reporters will provide quick daily updates about the tech ecosystem in China.