WeChat (微信) Android 8.0.70 stable update released: "Self-talk" can be retracted, many features in gradual rollout

Lead

WeChat (微信) team has pushed the Android 8.0.70 stable update, it has been reported that the new build (released March 30) carries the minimalist changelog line "fixed some known issues" but brings a few notable changes. The headline feature: messages you send to yourself can now be recalled. Who hasn't sent a quick note or a stray emoji to their own chat? Now those "self-talk" items can be one-tap deleted. The update log also says the "Chat interface new message notification" option under Me → Settings → Notifications now covers all Android 8 and above devices.

What's new (and still rolling out)

Beyond the self-recall and notification coverage, the update touches features that are being rolled out in stages rather than tied strictly to the version number. The so-called "Lobster" plugin (龙虾插件) entry — a Tencent (腾讯)‑promoted feature — appeared in an earlier release and is being distributed through a separate channel, so its availability isn't strictly linked to 8.0.70. It has been reported that several features currently in iOS 8.0.70 gray release are not yet visible on Android: a "send and merge display" option when sending three or more images/videos, swipe-left/right preview switching on message bubbles with an "expand" control to show all images, a new "Unread Chats" popup that lists all unread conversations, an upgraded long‑press voice→text interface that converts speech to text and sends on release (swipe up to cancel), and floating reminders for unclaimed red packets or transfers when other messages push them up. These are reportedly being gray‑tested and will land for Android users gradually.

Why it matters

For Western readers: WeChat, operated by Tencent (腾讯), is not just a messenger in China — it's a platform for payments, services and mini‑programs, woven into daily life for hundreds of millions. Feature rollouts in China often use staged "gray" deployments and separate plugin channels, so version numbers can underrepresent what users actually receive. And while WeChat has been the subject of geopolitical scrutiny abroad, its product evolution remains focused on convenience and retention at home. Expect more incremental changes to appear over the coming weeks; if you're using the app, check for updates and watch for gray‑release flags — and if you spot a landed feature, it has been reported that community reports are already helping confirm broader rollouts.