Living in China requires the use of several mobile apps that are essential for daily life. These apps range from communication and mobile payments to navigation and entertainment.
First and foremost, a virtual private network (VPN) app is a must-have for foreigners living in China. Many popular social media and news websites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google, are blocked in China. A VPN allows users to bypass these restrictions and access blocked content. It has very high demand among expats and international students.
WeChat is another app that is essential for living in China. This messaging app is widely used for communication and mobile payments. It allows users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and even transfer money to other users. This app is so popular in China that it is considered to be a way of life.
Alipay is another important app for mobile payments in China. This app, which is owned by Alibaba, is used for making payments in shops, restaurants, and online. It is also used for paying utility bills and other services.
Taobao is an important e-commerce platform for expats living in China because it offers a wide range of products and services that are essential for daily life. It is the most popular online shopping platform in China and offers a wide variety of products, from clothing and electronics to groceries and furniture. This makes it an ideal platform for expats to purchase items that they may not be able to find locally.
Google Translate is a great app for those who are not fluent in Mandarin Chinese. This app can translate text and speech in real-time, making it a useful tool for communicating with locals.
Hangping Dictionary is another app that is useful for those who are not fluent in Mandarin Chinese. This app provides translations for words and phrases, and also includes a feature that allows users to hear the pronunciation of words.
Baidu Maps or Amap are popular mapping apps in China. They provide detailed maps of the country and include features such as real-time traffic information, public transportation routes, and the locations of shops and restaurants.
Didi is a transportation app that is widely used in China. It allows users to book a taxi or a private car with a driver. This app is very convenient and is a great alternative of Uber to hailing a taxi on the street.
Youku is a popular video streaming app that is widely used in China. It offers a wide variety of content, including movies, TV shows, and live events. This app is a great way to keep entertained while living in China.
Overall, these apps are essential for anyone living in China. They make daily life more convenient and allow people to communicate, make payments, navigate, and stay entertained. These apps are also very useful before travelling to China, as they help you to be prepared for your trip and make the most of your time in this country.