Apple accepts WeChat Pay in bid to reverse sales decline

Apple Inc announced on Tuesday its iconic app store and music-streaming service Apple Music now accepts WeChat Pay in China, a clear sign of easing tensions with internet giant Tencent Holdings Ltd amid an in-app purchase spat.

Experts said Apple had very few choices but to reconcile with Tencent, a bellwether of the mobile industry and a dominant social media force in China, as it tries to salvage falling sales and retain users in the world's largest consumer market.

In a statement, Apple said it is "excited" to introduce Chinese customers using WeChat Pay to purchase apps or subscribe to Apple Music, and will continue to offer payment options that are simple and convenient.