Connect in China: Essential Apps & Mobile Internet
Stay Online
Mobile
In modern-day China, the mobile phone has become more essential than a wallet or keys. Leaving home without a phone can sometimes make it difficult to get around.
Cellular Data
Mainland China does NOT currently support eSIM cards for smartphones.
| Generation | Standard |
|---|---|
| 2G | GSM (China Unicom, China Mobile) CDMA (China Telecom) |
| 3G | WCDMA (China Unicom) CDMA2000 (China Telecom) TD-SCDMA (China Mobile) |
| 4G | TD-LTE FDD-LTE (China Unicom, China Telecom) |
Please check if your phone supports the above standards.
WiFi
Most businesses provide free WiFi, and it's everywhere, even at a noodle shop, where you can ask for the password.
Apps
Chinese teenagers have all received English education. However, not everyone can use English fluently for communication.
Translation
Google Translate
The best translation software. However, Google's services have always had trouble working correctly on China's internet network.
Microsoft Translate
Microsoft Translator is a translation service by Microsoft, offering real-time text and speech translation in a wide range of languages.
Baidu Translate
Baidu Translate is a language translation service developed by China's leading internet company, Baidu, providing instant text and speech translation into multiple languages.
The downside is that it often pushes content unrelated to translation. The advantage is that it is definitely usable under China's internet environment.
Chinese Uber
Amap
Amap is China's largest mapping application, offering route navigation, public transit and subway inquiries, driving, walking, and other transportation planning services, as well as ride-hailing. Users can quickly call taxis or ride-hailing vehicles through the built-in ride-hailing feature for convenient travel.
Didi
Didi is a leading Chinese ride-hailing platform that offers a range of transportation services including taxi hailing, private car rides, and bike sharing. Users can easily book rides through the mobile app, which also provides real-time tracking and payment options, making urban travel more convenient and accessible.
Food Online
Meituan Waimai and Ele.me are two major food delivery platforms in China that allow users to order meals from a wide variety of restaurants and have them delivered directly to their doorstep, providing a convenient way to enjoy dining options from local eateries.