Countries with Low Mobile Phone Usage
Canada and Japan stand out as countries with relatively low rates of smartphone ownership compared to other advanced countries.
Countries where Free Phone Usage is Restricted
It is worth noting that in Albania, Andorra, Belarus, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Vatican City, Georgia, North Macedonia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino, Serbia, Switzerland, and Ukraine, using your phone free of charge may not be possible due to various restrictions.
Mobile Phone Usage Highlights in China
Mobile Phone Penetration and Industry Dynamics
- Nearly everyone in China owns a mobile phone, with over 1.6 billion mobile phone subscriptions in 2021.
- There are over 850 providers in China catering to its 851 million smartphone users.
- The global smartphone usage rate had increased to 78% by 2020, showing rapid growth compared to population increase.
Tips for Tourists in China
- When traveling in China, understanding how to use a tourist SIM card and choosing the best networks is essential.
- Recommendations for suitable operators for tourists in China are provided to ensure a smooth communication experience.
Communication Infrastructure and Regulations
- The format of mobile and landline numbers in China is distinct, with mobile numbers having 11 digits starting with 1 and landlines having area codes and 8-12 digit local numbers.
- Chinese authorities regulate information flows, which may lead to limitations on free speech and crackdowns on certain types of content dissemination.
Smartphone Penetration Rates Across Countries
The smartphone penetration rate is utilized as an indicator of a country’s economic advancement, with rates higher than 70% often seen in countries with advanced economies. Notably, South Korea has the highest smartphone penetration rate outside Western Europe and the United States at over 76%.
Global Dominance of Apple in the Smartphone Market
While the United States boasts the highest number of iPhone users, countries like China significantly contribute to Apple’s global dominance in the smartphone industry. China, with its vast population and expanding middle class, is a significant player in the global smartphone market.