QQ

QQ, originally called OICQ, is the most popular free instant messaging computer program in China. It was initially developed by Tencent Inc. in February 1999. Tencent Inc. has since changed its name to QQ, because ICQ accused it of using a similar name.

It is estimated that the users of QQ in China number more than 15,000,000. As of 5 March 2005, on the Mainland China server, an average of 9,000,000 people are online at any one time. Using QQ on the Mainland China Server is known to be a very good resource for learners of Chinese, as most Chinese people who use QQ have little contact with foreigners, and may be eager to make foreign friends.

See also

• List of instant messengers
• Comparison of instant messengers

External links

• Learning Chinese using QQ An English introduction to using QQ and learning chinese on it.
• QQ messenger (Uses South African Server)
• Official Website (Uses Mainland China Server)
• Instant Messenger Software (in Chinese)
• Company Website
• QQ Japan (in Japanese)

QQ is sometimes used on the Internet as an abbreviation for crying. (Two big eyes with tears at the bottom)

See also: QQ, 1999, 2005, 5 March, Comparison of instant messengers, Computer program, Computer software, Crying