4.3 Technology in Contemporary Chinese Life

Use of Technology in Chinese Museums

• Audio guides: Many museums offer audio guides that provide visitors with additional information and context about the exhibits they are viewing. These can be accessed through handheld devices or through smartphone apps.
• Online resources: Many museums have developed online resources, such as virtual tours and educational videos, that allow visitors to learn about the exhibits and the museum's collection from the comfort of their own homes.
• Social media: Museums have also used social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, to promote their exhibits and engage with visitors.
• Digital ticketing and payments: Museums have also implemented digital ticketing and payment systems to make it easier for visitors to purchase tickets and make payments for services, such as guided tours and special events.

• The National Museum of China in Beijing: The National Museum of China uses virtual reality (VR) technology to take visitors on virtual tours of ancient Chinese cities, including famous tourist destinations in Xi'an and Luoyang.
• The Shanghai Museum: The Shanghai Museum has implemented a number of technological initiatives to enhance the visitor experience, including the use of virtual reality (VR) technology to create interactive exhibits. The museum has also developed a number of online resources, such as virtual tours and educational videos, that are available on its website.
• The Great Wall Museum in Beijing: The Great Wall Museum has implemented the use of virtual reality (VR) technology to take visitors on virtual tours of the Great Wall, including sections that may be difficult to access in person. VR creates an opportunity for people to experience the Great Wall even without having to climb it themselves.
• The Hunan Provincial Museum: The Hunan Provincial Museum has a VR exhibit that allows visitors to experience the history and culture of the Hunan province, including its ancient cities, temples, and landscapes.
• The Hubei Provincial Museum: The Hubei Provincial Museum is a museum located in Wuhan, China has a VR exhibit that takes visitors on a virtual tour of the ancient city of Wuhan and its famous Yellow Crane Tower. The museum has several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the exhibits in a more immersive and hands-on way. This can include touchscreens, augmented reality (AR) displays, and other interactive elements.

Impact of Technology on Chinese People's Everyday Lives

Online Banking in China

• Checking account balances and transaction history: Users can view their account balances and transaction history on their mobile banking app, making it easy to keep track of their finances.
• Making payments: Users can make payments for a wide range of goods and services using their mobile banking app, including paying bills, making purchases online, and transferring money to other people.
• Managing credit cards: Users can also use their mobile banking app to manage their credit cards, including viewing their balances, making payments, and tracking their spending.
• Receiving and sending money: Mobile banking apps also make it easy for users to receive and send money to other people, either through the app itself or using QR codes. This eliminates the need to carry cash or visit a bank in person to transfer money.

Ride-sharing in China

• Ease of use: Ride-sharing platforms are easy to use, with user-friendly apps that allow users to quickly book a ride and track their driver's progress.
• Accessibility: Ride-sharing platforms are available in many cities across China, making it easy for people to find a ride no matter where they are.
• Payment options: Most ride-sharing platforms allow users to pay for their rides using their mobile banking app, eliminating the need to carry cash or a credit card.
• Safety: Many ride-sharing platforms have safety features in place, such as in-app tracking and ratings systems for drivers, to help ensure that users have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Delivery Services in China

• Online shopping delivery: Many online retailers in China, such as Taobao and JD.com, offer delivery services to customers. This allows people to shop online and have their purchases delivered directly to their home or office.
• Food delivery: Platforms such as Ele.me and Meituan allow users to order food from a wide range of restaurants and have it delivered to their home or office. This has made it easier for people to enjoy a wide range of cuisines without having to go out to a restaurant.
• Parcel delivery: There are also many companies that specialize in delivering packages and other items within China and internationally. These companies offer a range of delivery options, from same-day delivery to standard shipping.
• On-demand delivery: In addition to these services, there are also on-demand delivery platforms such as Shunfeng and Dada that allow users to request delivery of a wide range of items, from groceries to household goods.

Online Shopping in China

• Taobao: Taobao is an online shopping platform operated by Alibaba Group. It offers a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics, home goods, and more.
• JD.com: JD.com is another major online retailer in China that offers a wide range of products, including electronics, home goods, and more.
• Tmall: Tmall is another online shopping platform operated by Alibaba Group. It primarily focuses on high-end and brand name products.
• Pinduoduo: Pinduoduo is a newer online shopping platform that offers a wide range of products at discounted prices. It has become particularly popular with younger consumers.