Anadolu staff
05 February 2026•Update: 05 February 2026
ISTANBUL
China’s internet user base rose to 1.125 billion last year, while about 602 million people used generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, according to a report released by the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC).
The country’s internet penetration rate climbed to 80.1%, according to Xinhua News Agency.
The findings were outlined in the 57th Statistical Report on China’s Internet Development, published by the CNNIC, which highlighted the continued expansion of digital connectivity nationwide and the rapid integration of emerging technologies into daily life and business operations.
A key driver of this growth was the widespread adoption of generative AI, which saw a year-on-year increase of 141.7%, the report said.
The report concluded that China’s internet sector made “significant progress” during the 2021–2025 period, marked by stronger innovation, deeper technological application and improved accessibility.
