Recently, WeChat's Mini Program operating team released new regulations for its education and training category, explicitly stating that it will no longer support courses related to AI commercial applications, including those focused on "AI entrepreneurship," "customer acquisition," and "monetization." This policy revision reflects WeChat's dual approach to managing platform content: cracking down on AI courses directly related to commercialization while still encouraging the sharing and dissemination of technical knowledge.
Specifically, WeChat Mini Program has decided to prohibit courses that teach how to use AI for commercial activities, including topics such as starting an AI-based business, increasing revenue, and acquiring customers. AI deepfake courses related to fraudulent advertising, including face and voice swapping, are also banned. These courses often exaggerate their effects and make unrealistic promises to users, leading to their inclusion on the prohibited list. Additionally, other courses related to offline training, luxury goods appraisal, and youth sports are also restricted.
Meanwhile, Tencent Cloud recently launched its AI Creation Training Camp initiative, encouraging developers to submit original works related to AI technology. While pure AI-generated content is not permitted, content focusing on technical principles, code implementation, and industry solutions is still encouraged. This reveals a strategic difference between Tencent's various departments, aiming to steer AI content back towards its inherent technical value.
In terms of specific implementation details, WeChat Mini Program has also adjusted product descriptions, removing those related to offline learning and emphasizing in-group live streaming learning. This means that future course content will focus more on online teaching rather than traditional face-to-face instruction. Furthermore, to better serve users of different age groups, the target audience for courses is now categorized into two groups: 7-18 years old and 18 years old and above.
WeChat Mini Program's new regulations are clearly aimed at establishing a healthier content ecosystem, protecting users from misleading advertising while providing space for genuine technical sharing. This policy is likely to promote the healthy development of the AI field in the future.