The rapid development of the mainland telecoms infrastructure and the need to find even speedier ways of bringing services to the masses means Beijing has been more than willing to experiment with new technology.
Relatively unencumbered by older equipment, it has been able to leap a generation of technology.
From having limited access to telecoms, many now can use the best the information age has to offer.
A look at the cellular systems used shows that China is in a privileged position of embracing almost every technology standard.
It began by installing analogue AMPS and TACS systems - followed by the digital-based GSM a couple of years ago.
Now Great Wall Communications is set to launch its national cellular service using digital CDMA technology. In addition, PCS, a higher frequency form of GSM, is being put on trial in Shanghai and looks set to be adopted.
Japan's personal handyphone system also has come under examination, but implementation of this technology seems to be the least likely option.
