A decade ago, women made up less than 40 per cent of China's internet population. That proportion has gradually risen over the past years to 47 per cent in 2014. On mobile, the share of female users is 38 per cent but is growing faster than men, increasing by 41 million last year to 282 million, according to research firm Analysys.
Meanwhile, in four in 10 mainland Chinese families, women are the financial gatekeepers, contributing to around 60 per cent of China's retail sales, according to iResearch. It is natural then that Chinese tech firms are recognising the growing importance of catering to their female users. SCMP staff reporters have sifted through the many apps targeting women. Apps are included on the following list based on their popularity and investment level.
Meiyou
Also called Meet You, this Chinese app originated as a menstruation tracker but has since evolved into a social network targeting female users who want to discuss and share tips with one another about women's issues, including fashion, health, relationships, finance, pregnancy and children. Launched in April 2013, the app had more than 70 million registered users as of 2014, with over four million active users. The Xiamen-based startup has raised three rounds in about a year: millions of dollars of Series A financing in June 2013, US$15 million in Series B led by Matrix Partners China, and US$35 million in Series C funding led by SIG and followed by Matrix Partners China and China Renaissance K2 Ventures.
Meitu Xiuxiu
