Why China’s top hook-up app Momo is going into show business

Screenshots of Momo live streamers. The Chinese hook up app has moved into reality TV to attract more talent. Photo: Handout.

Momo, the Chinese company whose hook-up app morphed into a hybrid of live streaming and social media platform, has moved into reality TV production to attract more broadcasting talent amid intensified rivalry for eyeballs in the country’s live streaming industry.

Momo’s first outing in professional broadcasting is PhantaCity, a music reality show co-produced and sponsored by the company. Since its launch in July, it has become the “most heavily discussed TV variety show” on the internet, especially among the young and well-educated audience, Momo chief executive Tang Yan said in a conference call with analysts after announcing its earnings results on Wednesday.

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