Switching Alipay to English or Vietnamese
So you've registered for Alipay to use in China, but you're struggling with the Chinese interface? Don't worry, you're not alone! This guide shows you how to switch Alipay to English.
Important Note: While a Vietnamese option exists, English tends to provide a more consistent experience. Some sections might still display Chinese characters when using Vietnamese. For seamless train ticket bookings, consider using TRIP.
1. Choosing English During Initial Registration
During the signup process:
- Tap the second Chinese character option at the bottom.
- Select the first item in the list—that's English!
You'll notice Vietnamese is also an option here. I personally prefer sticking with English for ease of use.
Keep in Mind: Not all sections will fully translate. This mostly simplifies common tasks like adding cards or scanning codes. For train tickets or more complex actions, using Google Gemini or similar AI tools for screen translation can be incredibly helpful.
Also, ensure you have a SIM card that allows Google access. Local Chinese SIMs might restrict Google services.
That's it for setting the language during signup!
2. Changing the Language After Registration
Already using Alipay and want to switch languages? Here's how:
- Tap the "Account" icon (the person icon) in the bottom right corner.
- Tap the gear icon in the top right corner (Settings).
- Select the 8th option down to access general settings.
- The 2nd option is for language settings. Tap this to change to English or Vietnamese.
Remember the note from above!
For a smoother experience, verify your account and add your Vietnamese bank card beforehand. Ideally, complete facial recognition and passport verification within the wallet section before traveling to China. Consider testing the transfer function by sending a small amount to a friend.
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