ByteDance has shut down its messaging app LetsChat on the continent. The TikTok creator shut down the app reportedly on March 23, according to a note on its website.
The decision to shut down the app comes after Bytedance spent three years trying to make LetsChat a success in Africa by hiring local teams and investing in promotion.
“This decision was made after careful consideration and evaluation of our strategic business objectives,” a spokesperson said.
“We appreciate that LetsChat has been a valuable communication tool for many individuals and businesses, and we are thankful for the opportunity to have served our users in the country.” they added.
ByteDance launched LetsChat in March 2021, offering young Africans a data-saving messaging platform. In addition to text messaging, the app allowed users to make free voice and video calls, and play in-app games.
By June 2023, LetsChat reportedly had over 5 million downloads on the Google Play store. By the time the app shut down, it had reached nearly 7 million downloads, 82% of which were from Nigeria, according to market intelligence firm Sensor Tower.
Between December 2023 and February 2024, monthly users had dropped by about 33.4% — from 125,150 to 83,412.
