Apple Intelligence clears China hurdle with Alibaba and Baidu
Alibaba’s Qwen and Baidu will power AI features in mainland China iPhones.
Apple Intelligence has cleared a key regulatory hurdle in mainland China after the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) approved the AI platform for use on iPhones, according to Reuters. The approval ends a lengthy wait since Apple unveiled the platform in 2024 but couldn't launch it in China due to strict local regulations on large language models and generative AI services. To comply, Apple partnered with Alibaba and Baidu: Alibaba confirmed its Qwen model will be integrated across Apple’s iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS systems, enabling text and image generation directly within Apple Intelligence without switching between apps. Baidu similarly confirmed its role in developing AI features for Chinese iPhone users.
The approval arrives as Apple tries to maintain momentum in one of its most important markets. Apple’s shipments in China rose 24.4% year over year during the second quarter, and rolling out AI features could help compete with domestic smartphone makers that already promote AI capabilities. The CAC also approved ZTE’s Nubia-Doubao smartphone AI service, showing continued certification of both domestic and international AI offerings. However, no release date has been given, and Apple has not announced a launch timeline. The partnership also gives Alibaba a high-profile deployment for Qwen, highlighting how geopolitical tensions are reshaping AI partnerships.
- Apple Intelligence approved by China’s Cyberspace Administration for use on iPhones in mainland China.
- Alibaba’s Qwen model and Baidu will power text and image generation features within Apple Intelligence.
- Apple’s China shipments grew 24.4% YoY in Q2; AI rollout could help sustain growth against local competitors.
Why It Matters
Apple adapts to China’s AI regulations by partnering locally, securing a competitive edge in a critical market.