Title: A Comprehensive Guide to Telecommunications Mobile Number Prefixes in China

Introduction: In the rapidly evolving world of telecommunications, mobile phone numbers have become an integral part of our daily lives. In China, mobile phone numbers are structured with specific prefixes that indicate the service provider and sometimes the region. Understanding these prefixes can help users choose the right service and recognize the origin of a number. This article delves into the various mobile number prefixes used by different telecommunications providers in China and provides their English equivalents.

Section 1: Overview of Mobile Number Structure in China

Explain the basic structure of a Chinese mobile phone number, which is typically 11 digits long. Mention that the first digit is always ‘1’, and the next three digits represent the mobile network operator.

Section 2: Mobile Network Operator Prefixes and Their English Equivalents

China Mobile:

Prefix: 134-139, 150-152, 157-159, 182-184, 187-188, 147, 178 English Equivalent: China Mobile

China Unicom:

Prefix: 130-132, 155-156, 185-186, 145, 176 English Equivalent: China Unicom

China Telecom:

Prefix: 133, 153, 180-181, 189, 177 English Equivalent: China Telecom

Virtual Network Operators (VNOs):

Prefixes: 170-171, 172-175, 177 (shared with China Telecom) English Equivalent: Virtual Network Operators

Section 3: Special Purpose Number Prefixes

Discuss the special purpose prefixes like:
133: Used for CDMA technology. 170: Used for VoIP and mobile internet. 177: Used for 4G/5G services.

Section 4: Regional Prefixes

Explain that while the first three digits are generally associated with the service provider, the fourth digit can sometimes indicate the region or province. Provide a brief overview of the region-based prefixes for major provinces.

Section 5: How to Identify the Service Provider and Region

Offer tips on how to determine the service provider and region by looking at the first few digits of a mobile number. Suggest using online tools or mobile apps that can decode mobile numbers.

Conclusion: Understanding the prefixes of Chinese mobile phone numbers can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to identify service providers, regions, or simply out of curiosity. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the prefixes used by major telecommunications operators in China and their English equivalents, making it easier for users to navigate the world of mobile telecommunications in China.