Connectivity & Apps

Prepare Your Phone and Essential Apps

Use the local SIM guide to plan connectivity, review which apps work in China, then decide whether VPN preparation belongs in your setup. The power adapter guide covers charging devices. Service availability and provider terms can change, so verify them before departure.

Tourists can get online in mainland China through home-carrier roaming, a travel eSIM, a local SIM or...

Do not assume Instagram will be available on ordinary mainland China mobile data or Wi-Fi. Australian...

Google Maps should not be your only navigation tool in mainland China. Current UK travel advice lists...

Do not assume Gmail will be available on a normal mainland China mobile or Wi-Fi connection. Current...

A useful China travel app setup is smaller than most lists suggest. Start with one payment app, one map,...

A mainland Chinese mobile number can make local calls, receive SMS codes and simplify some app workflows,...

Foreign visitors can book app-based rides in China through the DiDi Greater China app or ride-hailing...

Choose a China connectivity option by answering two questions: does the phone support the plan you intend...

Shared bikes are useful for short city journeys when the destination is farther than a comfortable walk...

The best China eSIM for tourists is a compatible plan that covers the trip, provides the data and sharing...

The best VPN for China in 2026 is one you install and test before you fly, because the Great Firewall...

No, you cannot use Google in China on a normal Chinese connection. Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps,...

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