Mona Afanga at the Smart Canteen on the Qingshuihe Campus of the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 

In 2019, when I landed in China, I expected to pay for a taxi the way I always did back home in Morocco: using cash. But to my surprise, the driver refused. “WeChat or Alipay only,” he said, smiling. That was my introduction to China’s digital revolution. What began as confusion quickly transformed into fascination. From QR codes for payments and donations to voice-activated commands, I realised I wasn’t just in a different country - I was in a future that was already here. 

One day, I fell ill and needed to see a doctor. I expected the process to be complicated, but it turned out to be remarkably simple. I booked my appointment through a mini programme, and from there everything was handled with just one QR scan: check-in, payment, receiving the diagnosis and collecting medication. No paperwork, no credit cards - just a “health code” that took care of everything. 

Some pharmacies even have machines that process up to 400 prescriptions an hour. And now, facial recognition gates and infrared temperature checks at hospitals are standard. It felt like stepping into a hospital from the future. Everything was quick, smooth and almost totally contactless. 

Experiencing innovation 

Living here, I’ve had the chance to see firsthand how digital innovation is transforming health care. One of the most impressive developments has been the partnership between the Health Bureau of Pidu District in Chengdu, capital city of Sichuan Province, and Xunfei Medical Technology, part of the Chinese AI company iFlytek. Together, they have launched an AI assistant that simplifies medical reports, checks symptoms, provides medication details and tracks health data. 

China is also making strides with remote consultations, where rural patients can have their scans reviewed by top doctors through the “Internet + Medical” system, saving them from long, expensive trips. 

I’ve also seen how Pidu District is looking out for elderly residents living alone. They’ve partnered with Lichen Technology to install smart care devices in homes, including AI fall detectors in bathrooms, health monitors above the beds, smoke detectors in kitchens, and emergency badges for seniors. These devices alert family members or community staff when needed, allowing the elderly to live independently while still having protection and support. 

The influence of digital development is making waves not only in health care but also in residential and hospitality spaces. In these environments, smart technologies are transforming everyday experiences.  

In hotels, robots are taking over tasks like guiding guests, cleaning and delivering packages, making services more efficient and contactless. At home, smart furniture is redefining comfort and convenience, offering adjustable features and built-in tech that adapts to the needs of the user. Smart speaker systems allow voice-controlled interactions, letting residents adjust the air conditioning, control lighting or curtains, and manage TV or music with simple verbal commands. These technologies offer a seamless and personalised living experience, where comfort and convenience are always within reach. 

In smart canteens, there is no need to wait in long queues or interact with staff. Everything is streamlined, from ordering food to payment, often through automated systems or mobile apps. 

Cars are becoming more intelligent, with AI-powered route planning, driver‑assistance features, smart parking and automated charging or refuelling. They also connect to a broader network of autonomous services.  

Smart governance  

In China, initiatives like “Public Legal Services” are making it easier for citizens to handle legal matters via mobile platforms, bringing justice closer to the people. Remote video conferencing allows families to stay connected with incarcerated relatives, saving time and money on travel, strengthening emotional ties and supporting inmates’ rehabilitation. It also lightens the load for prison staff while minimising contact-related risks. 

Platforms like WeChat and Alipay have evolved beyond messaging and payments. For example, the Chengdu Universal Volunteer mini programme allows residents to participate in volunteer activities and earn points. Another feature, the Chengdu Exit and Entry mini programme, streamlines tasks such as accommodation registration and provides access to updated laws, cutting down on bureaucracy. 

Digital governance is revolutionising public services, making everything from certificates to bill payments more efficient. AI is also playing a key role in monitoring unauthorised road use and enhancing public safety. 

Alipay’s credit scoring system adds a new layer to China’s tech-driven lifestyle. Points earned from timely payments can reduce or eliminate deposits for services like shared bikes or power banks. These points also unlock rewards and discounts, while late payments lower scores and reduce benefits.  

Looking back on my first day in China, when my cash was unusable, I can now appreciate how online payments and hongbao (red envelope) rewards helped me to adapt and thrive in a society where digital trust and convenience are the norm. Tipping the driver who helped with my luggage marked the turning point from my old habits to a more digital way of living. Since then, I’ve been receiving my own kind of “tips” through Alipay’s seamless services, making my daily life smoother and more rewarding. 

The author is a PhD student at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China. 

This article is a winning entry in the China in My Eyes writing competition held by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China.