It took the US over 200 years to fully embrace its values. It’ll take time for opposing groups inside China to change it.
Remember that Xi was sent to a re-education camp in his youth and was initially considered to be an average politician. If he was able to rise to power, there’s no telling what changes can happen in the decades to come.
At first I got the impression a photo was required when buying a new cellphone, but this appears to be just for new numbers.
China already requires an ID to get a number, so I don’t see how requiring a photo will help them track people even more? Maybe it gives them an updated photo? However, if you don’t get a new number every few years, then it’s useless.
My own country requires a photo ID to get a number and I’ve been to several other countries that do as well. I guess I’m just used to it now. Similar to how we put our photos on resumes, but my American friends were shocked by that.
I’m not the person you asked, but I create throwaway accounts when commenting on sensitive topics so I don’t get harassed irl and since you can’t delete accounts on HN.
Remember that Xi was sent to a re-education camp in his youth and was initially considered to be an average politician. If he was able to rise to power, there’s no telling what changes can happen in the decades to come.