Want to chat seamlessly on Ubuntu? WeChat, the popular messaging app from Tencent with over a billion users, isn’t natively built for Linux, but you can install it on Ubuntu 24.04 using Deepin Wine.
This guide makes it easy, offering step-by-step commands to set up WeChat’s desktop client via a trusted repository.
Whether you’re sending texts, sharing media, or making calls, WeChat brings its full power to your Ubuntu system. Ready to get started? Let’s go!
How to Install WeChat on Ubuntu 24.04
Follow these steps to install WeChat using the Deepin Wine repository, tested for Ubuntu 24.04:
Step 1: Update Your System
- Open your terminal.
- Ensure your package list is current, run:
sudo apt update
- Upgrade installed packages:
sudo apt upgrade -y
(Omit -y to confirm manually)
Step 2: Add the Deepin Wine Repository
- Download and run the setup script to add the repository:
wget -O- https://deepin-wine.i-m.dev/setup.sh | sh
- This adds the Deepin Wine source, enabling WeChat installation.
Step 3: Install WeChat
- Update your package list again:
sudo apt update
- Install the Deepin WeChat package:
sudo apt install deepin.com.wechat
- Launch WeChat from your applications menu, or type:
deepin.com.wechat
- Scan the QR code with your phone’s WeChat app to log in.
Tip: Need the latest version? The Deepin repository keeps WeChat updated automatically via APT.
What Makes WeChat Stand Out
WeChat is a free, all-in-one messaging app launched by Tencent in 2011, now boasting over a billion users. While it shines on mobile, this Deepin Wine setup brings its desktop features to Ubuntu:
- Chat Anytime: Send texts, voice messages, photos, and videos instantly.
- Group Fun: Connect with friends in lively group chats.
- Calls: Enjoy free voice and video calls worldwide.
- Stickers: Spice up chats with fun, global artist-designed stickers.
- Moments: Share life’s highlights with photos and videos.
System Requirements for Ubuntu
- OS: Ubuntu 20.04 or newer (tested on 24.04)
- Processor: Dual-core CPU at 2.0 GHz
- Memory: 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)
- Storage: 1GB free space
- Internet: Required for login and use
How to Uninstall WeChat
- Open your terminal.
- Remove WeChat:
sudo apt remove deepin.com.wechat
- Optional, purge config files:
sudo apt purge deepin.com.wechat
- Remove the Deepin repository (if desired):
sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/deepin-wine-i-m-dev.list
sudo apt update
More Ubuntu Messaging Apps
Need Help?
Stuck installing WeChat? Comment below or contact us, we’re here to assist!