Ok, I'm going to rise to the question of "what is the purpose of Wechat?" Lots of things to different people and yes, it is a bit Facebook like with the moments function.

What I use it for:
Instant messaging, especially when I don't need an immediate reply (I'd actually call if it was urgent!). I use it for social and work related messages.

Sharing photos...yes some are of the scenery, selfie, food variety bit for work issues in factories it is quick to send a photo then call to discuss the problem, especially if I don't have my laptop.

Locations.....sometimes when meeting friends were struggling to find places. The send location function works really well and links into various mapping apps.

Taxis....my wife has hers linked into didi dache so orders taxi on that app but pays for it with wechat.

Group chats/groups....I only use two. One private with some good friends, one a beer group! Most are a waste of time as its just gossip, trolling and lame comments.

I've not linked my bank card yet but plan to as I can then use the various top up & payment functions.

Free voice calls. Works better than Skype for both voice and video using wifi for chatting so saves on my phone bills.
Official accounts. Im linked to a number of live venues where I get gig updates so have an idea of any bands worth seeing (I live in Guangzhou and I prefer these notifications than using Douban)

Who still needs to do visa runs? The "teachers" who accept 150rmb/hour or less? The ones who've just lost thier jobs in this alleged closing of lots of English teaching schools? Any of you needing to still do visa runs shouldn't complain & either accept the extra ballache or make yourself legal here!

Same as Alpage48....I use Skype with very few problems.....apart from bandwidth ones! I find wechat better on my phone for VoIP and video calls to other wechat users.

You want somewhere humane to see elephants yet want to ride them? Nothing humane in keeping elephants in captivity so they are made to carry people around all day.

Anyone added him on wechat yet to play games?