How technology can provide overseas Chinese with a sense of comfort and community in a new country

Chinese communities are spread across the globe. In the United States, Chinese descendants form the largest Asian group, with a population of 5. 2 million as of 2021. These individuals have migrated from China for various reasons, including academic pursuits, job opportunities, and family reunification. Relocating to a foreign country always comes with its set of challenges, such as learning a new language and adapting to a different culture. Even after settling down, these newcomers occasionally miss their homeland's traditions. The Weixin and WeChat apps have become a lifeline for Chinese living abroad, allowing them to stay connected with their loved ones and keep up with news from home. These apps also assist them in settling into their new city. In the past, establishing a new home and building a network of friends could take months or even years. However, technology has made this process much quicker and easier. Weixin and WeChat have become the preferred tools for the Chinese diaspora. There's a common misconception that 'WeChat' is merely the English name for Weixin. However, they are two separate but interoperable sister apps. Users of WeChat and Weixin can interact with each other seamlessly across the globe. With the connectivity these apps offer, Chinese living abroad can stay updated with news from home, have video calls with friends and relatives, and even send virtual lai see, or red packets of money. Group chat functions can also assist with house hunting and finding second-hand furniture. Many people use these communication apps for work purposes as well, such as transferring large files from their mobile phones to their laptops more efficiently than using email. But perhaps the most valuable aspect of this technology is how it helps overseas Chinese stay connected with their culture. Los Angeles, including the suburbs of Orange County, has the third-largest Chinese population in the US, with around 600,000 people. The Chen family, recent arrivals in Orange County, have been using WeChat not only to stay in touch with family back in Hong Kong but also to connect with a supportive new friend, Angelina Lau, who has lived in the US for 22 years. Watch the video to learn about the Chen family's experience of starting a new life overseas.