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BriefSOCIETY

China's Internet Users Over 60 Exceed 30% for First Time

MIIT data shows China's internet users aged 60+ surpass 30% at 290 million, but AI application usage among elderly is only one-third of younger demographics, revealing new forms of digital divide.

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released the "Statistical Report on China's Internet Development" on January 7, showing that by December 2027, China's internet users reached 1.12 billion, with users aged 60 and above surpassing 30% for the first time at 290 million.

However, the data reveals a new form of digital divide. AI application usage rates (including AI assistants, AI health management, AI shopping recommendations) among those aged 60+ stand at only 18%, far below the 67% among the 18-35 age group. In AI companion applications, elderly users account for less than 5%.

Wu Yushao, vice president of the China National Committee on Aging, analyzed that elderly people face not just technical operation barriers but a deeper trust deficit in AI technology. "Many elderly people ask: Will this AI deceive me? Is my personal information safe? These questions haven't been adequately addressed."

MIIT announced it will launch a "Silver AI" special initiative in 2028, requiring AI application developers to incorporate age-friendly design and conducting AI usage training in communities.