How do you text in China?

Texting in China: A Quick Guide for Global Communication

Staying connected while traveling or communicating with contacts in China requires understanding the nuances of their mobile system. While seemingly straightforward, texting to a Chinese number involves more than just adding a plus sign. This guide will break down the essential information you need to successfully send text messages to China.

The Key: The +86 Country Code

The most crucial element for texting someone in China is the correct use of the country code, +86. This prefix signifies that the following number belongs to the Chinese telecommunications network. Without it, your message is unlikely to reach its intended recipient. Think of it as the international dialing code specifically for China, similar to how the US uses +1.

Formatting the Entire Number

Once you have the +86 country code, you need the recipient’s eleven-digit Chinese phone number. This number typically starts with a ‘1’ and includes the area code and subscriber number. The complete format should look like this: +86 [1][10-digit phone number]. Ensure there are no spaces or dashes between the country code and the phone number.

Beyond the Basics: Considerations for Successful Texting

While the correct formatting is crucial, there are other factors that can influence successful text delivery to China:

• Your Mobile Carrier: Confirm with your mobile carrier that they support international texting to China and understand any associated costs. Roaming charges can apply, so consider using a Wi-Fi texting app or purchasing an international texting package.
• Recipient’s Service: Ensure the person you are texting has an active mobile phone service and can receive international texts.
• Messaging Apps: While SMS works, consider popular messaging apps widely used in China, such as WeChat or QQ. These often offer free texting and calling over Wi-Fi, providing a cost-effective alternative, especially for extended communication.
• Firewall Considerations: China’s internet firewall can sometimes affect the delivery of SMS messages. While generally not a significant issue, it’s worth keeping in mind if a message doesn’t arrive promptly.

Example:

Let’s say your friend in China has the phone number 13800138000. To text them from an international number, you would enter +8613800138000 in your messaging app.

By following these simple steps and considering the additional factors, you can ensure your messages reach your contacts in China effectively and stay connected seamlessly.