How to Access Grok in China with a VPN

To access Grok, the AI developed by X (formerly known as Twitter), from China, utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential. By establishing a VPN connection to a server in the US, you can gain access to Grok even from within China.

Grok is exclusively available to paid members of X Premium+. As stated on the official website: “Grok access is currently limited to Premium+ subscribers in selected territories.”

This article will detail how to subscribe to X Premium+ and access Grok in China using a VPN.

Why Can’t I Access Grok in China?

The exact reasons behind this blockage are not explicitly stated but This is because the Chinese government has blocked access to the SNS in order to control the speech in the SNS including X (the Chinese government cannot control the SNS outside of China). (The Chinese government has no control over the SNS outside of China.) Attempting to visit “https://twitter.com/” on a computer usually results in a blocked access screen in the browser.

In Which Country is Grok Available?

Grok is available in 48 countries and regions, including the United States, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, and New Zealand. A full list of countries can be found on the official X website. Of course, China is not included in this list.

the following countries can now grok:

– australia
– bahamas
– barbados
– belize
– botswana
– cameroon
– canada
– dominica
– eswatini
– fiji
– gambia
– ghana
– grenada
– guyana
– india
– jamaica
– kenya
– liberia
– malaysia
– malawi
– malta
– mauritius
– namibia
– new zealand
-… https://t.co/P9YatfLF3h

— X (@X) December 13, 2023

Four Effective Methods to Access X in China

In China, accessing X requires alternative approaches due to internet censorship. Here are four methods, each with varying levels of technical complexity:

1. Use a VPN: The simplest and most user-friendly option for non-IT professionals is a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN conceals your real IP address, allowing you to bypass China’s internet censorship. By connecting to a server outside of China, you can access X seamlessly. Detailed instructions on setting up a VPN are provided below.
2. Use a Proxy Server: A proxy server acts as an intermediary, routing your requests to X and delivering responses back to you. This method effectively circumvents internet censorship, though it requires some configuration.
3. Use Shadowsocks: Shadowsocks, based on a SOCKS5 proxy, is another tool for bypassing internet restrictions. It involves setting up a Shadowsocks server within China and using a corresponding client to access X.
4. Change DNS: Altering your DNS settings to a reliable DNS provider can sometimes enable you to bypass certain blockades. This method involves adjusting your network settings to use a different DNS.

Each of these methods has its own set of advantages and technical requirements. For those unfamiliar with technical configurations, using a VPN is often the most straightforward solution.

How to Access Grok in China

To access and utilize Grok from China, you need to follow three key steps. These steps ensure seamless access to the service even if you are in China.

ExpressVPN has some of the fastest internet speeds of the VPNs we have used. All VPNs may slow down your internet connection, but ExpressVPN is one of the fastest, and you rarely notice the difference. So, using ExpressVPN, you can enjoy TV programs normally available only in other countries without a noticeable difference in speed. After you’ve registered with ExpressVPN, you can easily browse the internet using ExpressVPN just by downloading their app.

STEP1. Register with ExpressVPN

To register with ExpressVPN, click the “Get ExpressVPN Today” button as shown below. After the price plan is shown, follow the instructions.

STEP2.Download, Launch the App, and Connect to a VPN Server in the US

Then, connect to a server in the United States, which is among the countries where Grok is accessible. When connecting to a US server, click “…” in the app and type “United States” in the search box. Select a server and click the power icon in the middle. 

Now, you can connect to a server in the US.

STEP3. Access X and Subscribe to X Premium+

If you don’t have an X account (formerly Twitter), you can create one immediately by following these instructions:

1. If you have a Google ID or Apple ID, you can directly register with either.
2. If you lack a Google ID or Apple ID, after connecting to a US server, go to X at “https://twitter.com/” and click “Create Account” to set up a new X account.

When registering from China, it’s advised to use your email address instead of your cell phone number.

Upon registration, “X Premium” will be visible on your homepage. Click on it, choose either “Individual” or “Group,” and then click “Subscribe”.

The monthly fee for X Premium+ is $16. Opting for annual payment grants a 12% discount, totaling $168/year. Select your plan and click “Subscribe & Pay” to complete your payment.

The Best VPN Services for Accessing Grok in China

Here are some excellent VPN services we recommend.

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