Deutsche Telekom excels in 5G coverage and download speeds within Germany, with a strong focus on sustainability and customer service digitization. China Mobile offers unparalleled nationwide coverage in China, particularly in rural areas, and is rapidly expanding its 5G network. Device compatibility is a key consideration for China Mobile, especially for foreign users. Both companies are leveraging AI to enhance customer experience and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility. The choice between the two depends on the user's location and specific needs.
| Attribute | Deutsche Telekom | China Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Network Coverage | Expanding 4G/5G, 5G covers over 97% of the German population (aiming for 99% by end of 2025), 96% of German households can access 5G, 99% have LTE coverage, phasing out 2G by summer 2028 | 2G covers almost all of China. 3G uses TD-SCDMA (less compatible with foreign phones). 4G uses TDD-LTE (less compatible with foreign phones), covers 99.6% of Chinese administrative villages. 5G expanding rapidly, generally provides continuous coverage in all townships nationwide, as well as effective coverage in large administrative villages and developed rural villages. |
| Data Speed | Average internet speed 82 Mbps, median download speed 55 Mbps, speeds range from 42 to 105 Mbps, maximum download speeds up to 4,218 Mbps in some areas, leads in combined 4G and 3G download speeds (15.11 Mbps), 5G Speed Score of 159.00, 5G median download speed of 169.06 Mbps | 2G: Maximum speed of 320kbps. 4G: Median nationwide download speeds exceeded 195Mbps as of March 2024. 5G: Median download speeds over 300Mbps in areas with China Broadnet. |
| Customer Service Quality | Customer Service score of 3.7/5, digitizing customer service with 5.6 million monthly visits to customer service websites, solution rates risen from 32% to 42% through digitization | Integrating AI to improve customer experience. AI-powered systems resolve customer queries faster than human operators. Platforms like 'Voice of customers' & 'Voice of the frontline' aim to build customer-centricity. Multiple mechanisms for employee redressals. |
| Pricing Plans | Value for money and ROI score of 4.1/5, satisfaction hinges on good value for money and price transparency | Offers competitive international plans. |
| Roaming Options | Details not found | Offers unparalleled coverage across both urban and rural areas. |
| Device Compatibility | Ensure devices support 4G/LTE and 5G, as well as VoLTE or 5G VoNR | China Mobile's 3G and 4G networks may not be compatible with many foreign phones. |
| Security Measures | Access control, strong password requirements, data encryption, firewalls, access logs, malware protection, CCTV monitoring, internal guidelines and 'Binding Corporate Rules Privacy' | Implement comprehensive protection measures, including encryption, data backups, access controls, and security authentication. Must ensure their products and services adhere to national security standards. |
| Innovation | Focus on Quantum Networks, Network Security, Digital Twin, Technology Exploration, AI for network security | Integrating AI into its core network. Developed innovative New Calling services. Developed an innovative digital infrastructure of the “Ability as a Service” (AaaS) integration platform |
| Corporate Social Responsibility | Climate-neutral operations (Scope 1 and 2 emissions) by 2025, net-zero emissions along the entire value chain by 2040, focus on digital inclusion, campaigns against online hate speech | Focuses on bridging the digital divide, promoting rural revitalization and supporting coordinated regional development. Committed to environmental protection and has been recognized on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Focuses on improving access to technology in rural villages, offering care and support for society's disadvantaged, sponsoring philanthropic support for education, and promoting new techniques to manage resource consumption, improve materials efficiency, and decrease environmental impact overall. |
| Market Share | Leading market share in Germany | Largest mobile operator in China with over 900 million subscribers. |
| Financial Stability | Q1 2025 revenue €29.8 billion (+6.5%), adjusted EBITDA after leases €11.3 billion (+7.9%), adjusted net profit €2.44 billion (+9.1%), increased ownership stake in T-Mobile US to 51.8% | Details on revenue and profitability would likely be found in their annual reports. |
| Brand Reputation | Most valuable German brand, Consumer Trust Index score of 109, recognized for reliable connectivity and commitment to combating hate speech | Brand reputation is a critical factor influencing consumer purchase decisions. Emphasis on customer-centricity in enhancing their brand, digital and service experience heavily leveraging on the capabilities of AI. |
| Ratings | Overall Customer Service: 3.7/5, Value for money and ROI: 4.1/5 | Not available |
| Pros | Expanding 4G/5G network coverage, even in rural areas. High 5G coverage (over 97% of German population). Leads in 4G/3G and 5G download speeds. Digitizing customer service. Strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Climate-neutral operations targeted by 2025. Focus on digital inclusion and combating online hate speech. Financially stable with increasing revenue and profit. Considered the most valuable German brand. High level of consumer trust | Best nationwide coverage, ensuring connectivity in major cities and remote areas. AI operated systems respond and resolve customer queries faster compared to human operators. Competitive international plans. Committed to bridging the digital divide and boosting the healthy and sustainable development of social digital economy. |
| Cons | Specific data speeds during peak hours not available. International roaming options and costs information not available | 3G network (TD-SCDMA) may not be compatible with many foreign phones. 4G network (TDD-LTE) is also less compatible with foreign phones. Internet use should be limited during major network congestion periods. |