Audio apps have grown in popularity among Chinese netizens. Many people are using these apps as new channels to learn, seek help, express their feelings, and even connect with others, China Youth Daily reported on March 19.

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As of June last year, China had 232 million audiobook users, accounting for 28.9 percent of the country’s total number of netizens, according to a report released by the China Internet Network Information Center.

Wang Jiayi, a senior student at the South-Central University for Nationalities, told China Youth Daily that she found an audio app called Ximalaya FM quite useful for preparing her for the postgraduate entrance examination.

“There is a lot to memorize for the exam, as I major in Chinese literature. I can use the app to record what I need and play the clips back to help me memorize key information,” Wang explained.

Aside from students, other social groups have also put audio apps to excellent use. Fourteen doctors in the Shanghai medical care system set up a channel on the app Qingting FM, which provides counseling and explains medical knowledge.

Data showed that they have nearly 18,000 listeners, and have offered a free clinic to over 3,000 citizens in their online studio.

Audio apps, apart from serving as tools, also created a world for young people to express their feelings and socialize.

For example, it has already become common practice for young people to interact in the comments section on music audio apps like NetEase Cloud Music and QQ Music.

Zhu Liyun, the host of a radio station, said it is wonderful to record and share life with other people through audio clips. He notes that it is connecting with people who have the same views and feelings that truly matters, rather than the number of listeners.

“Interacting with the audience online helps me understand what they think. It’s like talking to friends,” said Yang Lifeng, a senior operation director of Qingting FM live streaming.