China’s Internet Users Reach 1.1 Billion: Report
China’s internet landscape has seen tremendous growth in the first half of 2024, with the number of internet users reaching nearly 1.1 billion. This surge in internet adoption has been primarily driven by teenagers and the elderly, according to a report published by the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC) on Thursday.
**The Rise of Internet Connectivity in China**
The report highlights that over 7.4 million individuals gained internet access in China between January and June 2024, bringing the country’s online penetration rate to nearly 80%. This unprecedented growth can be attributed to significant investments in internet infrastructure over the past few decades. From being connected to the World Wide Web via a single line in Beijing 30 years ago, China has now built millions of base stations, ensuring internet coverage even in the most remote areas of the country.
One of the key milestones in China’s internet development is the establishment of 3.9 million 5G base stations, providing 5G connectivity to every county-level region in the country. This infrastructure expansion has played a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and enabling more individuals, particularly in rural areas, to access the internet. While the report notes a slight decrease in the internet usage among rural populations from 66.5% in 2023 to 64% in 2024, the overall trend indicates a growing internet user base across various demographics.
**Demographic Trends in Internet Adoption**
The report sheds light on the demographic shifts in internet adoption, with individuals aged 10-19 accounting for 49% of the new internet users, while those aged 50 or above making up 36%. This trend underscores the increasing digital literacy and engagement among younger and older populations in China. Most new internet users cited entertainment and social apps as the primary reason for signing up, with short video platforms like Douyin (China’s version of TikTok) being particularly popular.
According to the report, over one-third of new internet users in China identified short video apps as their entry point into the online world, showcasing the appeal of these platforms in delivering engaging content to users. The rise of ultrashort dramas on platforms like Douyin has captured the attention of more than half of Chinese internet users, indicating a shifting preference towards bite-sized video content.
**Evolving Content Consumption Patterns**
In addition to short video apps, the report highlights the growing consumption of long-form video content among Chinese internet users. Popular drama series like “To the Wonder” and “Blossoms Shanghai” have garnered significant viewership, signaling a diversification in content preferences and viewing habits. As internet users become more active online, there has been a notable increase in online purchases across various sectors.
The report reveals that half of internet users in China have ordered food via delivery platforms, while over 20% have made online payments at restaurants. Furthermore, a significant portion of users have purchased tickets for entertainment venues online, reflecting a shift towards digital transactions in the offline world. The rise of online trading platforms for second-hand goods has also gained traction, with nearly 70% of users opting for online platforms to sell their old devices.
**The Emergence of AI and Connected Technologies**
Another noteworthy trend highlighted in the report is the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) products among Chinese consumers. Sales of AI services have surged by 20.8% in the first half of 2024, indicating a rising interest in AI-powered solutions. Moreover, the report points out a significant milestone in June, as the number of internet-connected cars in China surpassed 100 million, showcasing the rapid integration of technology into everyday life.
Overall, the report paints a picture of a dynamic and evolving internet landscape in China, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and increased connectivity. The continued growth of the internet market in the country underscores the importance of digital innovation and infrastructure development in shaping the future of communication, entertainment, and commerce. As more individuals across diverse age groups embrace the digital world, the internet’s role in shaping society and economy in China is set to expand further in the coming years.