Group 1 - The article reflects on the evolution of communication methods in Shanghai, particularly the transition from public phone booths and pager systems to personal telephones and mobile phones [2][3][4] - The introduction of private telephone installation in 1990 marked a significant change, with citizens queuing to apply for phone lines, indicating a shift in societal norms regarding communication [13][21][22] - The narrative highlights the social status associated with owning a telephone in the early 1990s, where having a phone was seen as a symbol of prestige [17][18][19] Group 2 - The emergence of pagers (referred to as "拷机" or "Call machine") in the mid-1990s represented a new phase in personal communication, with various models available that catered to different user needs [28][30][32] - The article describes the cultural significance of pagers and the social dynamics they created, including a hierarchy based on the type of pager owned [32][34] - The transition to mobile phones began in the late 1990s, with the first mobile phones becoming accessible to university students, marking a shift in communication technology [58][59][60] Group 3 - The introduction of prepaid calling cards (201电话卡) in university dormitories simplified communication for students, allowing them to make calls without relying on public phone booths [48][51][53] - The narrative illustrates how the availability of personal phones led to changes in social interactions among students, including the use of phones for romantic connections [56][57] - The decline of fixed-line telephones in households is noted, as mobile phones became the primary means of communication, reflecting broader technological advancements [69][70][71]

Core Insights - The article highlights the evolution of communication technology in China, showcasing significant milestones from telegraphy to modern mobile communication and the internet [2][12][18]. Group 1: Historical Milestones - In 1979, telegraph operators in Chengdu were training new recruits, emphasizing the importance of careful communication [2]. - The introduction of the "brick-sized" mobile phone in 1986 marked a significant change in communication for vendors in Henan [5]. - The 1994 launch of a 64K international line allowed China to fully access the internet, which was a transformative moment for the country [12]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - The 1990s saw the rise of pagers, with the phrase "call me" becoming popular, indicating a shift in communication habits [8]. - By 2002, the popularity of the "Little Smart" phone made mobile communication accessible to a broader audience [10]. - The development of mobile communication technology has led to the widespread use of chat applications and mobile payments, fundamentally changing daily life [18][25]. Group 3: Modern Communication - The article notes that by 2016, students were using 4G networks for online classes, showcasing the integration of technology in education [20]. - The experience of AI digital avatars in 5G communication reflects the ongoing innovation in the telecommunications sector [23]. - The transition from traditional letter writing to instant messaging illustrates the rapid evolution of communication methods [25][26].