Tencent to roll out public service ads

Internet giant Tencent Holdings Ltd announced a plan to provide 2 billion yuan ($294 million) in advertising resources for public welfare organizations and projects.

The Shenzhen-based company said it will establish a new online platform to connect the public with a wide range of charity organizations and creative groups, aiming to boost the quality of public service ads. As a result, people will start to see noncommercial ads on Tencent's social networking platforms, such as WeChat and QQ.

Chen Yidan, one of the founders of Tencent, said the new platform would better integrate creative ideas and advertising skills with public welfare activities.