Apple Intelligence has received regulatory approval to launch in China, clearing a key obstacle that had delayed the company’s generative AI services in the market.
Reuters reported on Wednesday that the Cyberspace Administration of China approved the services following an agreement to integrate Alibaba’s Qwen AI models into Apple operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS and visionOS.
A Baidu spokesperson also confirmed to TechCrunch on Wednesday evening that the company is working with Apple to develop Apple Intelligence features for users in China.
Alibaba and Baidu partnerships
Alibaba previously confirmed that its Qwen models would be “integrated into Apple Intelligence experiences,” although it did not provide a launch timetable.
The planned integration will include:
- Text understanding and generation
- Image understanding and generation
- Apple Intelligence features adapted for users in China
Apple’s partnership with Alibaba had been reported last year. The company’s talks with Baidu had also been the subject of earlier reports, which said Apple faced challenges adapting its AI models for the Chinese market.
Apple is also reported to have explored possible integrations with DeepSeek and ByteDance.
China launch delayed by regulatory approval
Apple Intelligence debuted in 2024, but its release in China was delayed because the company had not secured approval from Chinese regulators.
The Alibaba agreement and Baidu collaboration give Apple local partners for operating its AI services under China’s regulatory requirements.
China remains an important market for the company. Apple generated $20.5 billion in Greater China sales during the second quarter, a 28% increase from a year earlier.
The company also recently returned to the No. 2 position in China’s smartphone market after discounts on its iPhone range during a shopping festival.
TL;DR:
Apple Intelligence has received approval to launch in China. Alibaba’s Qwen models will be integrated into Apple operating systems, while Baidu is also helping develop AI features for Chinese users.
Key points:
- China’s internet regulator approved Apple Intelligence for launch in the country.
- Alibaba’s Qwen AI models will be integrated into iOS, iPadOS, macOS and visionOS.
- Baidu confirmed it is also developing Apple Intelligence features with Apple.
- The China launch had been delayed since Apple Intelligence debuted in 2024.
- Apple reported $20.5 billion in Greater China sales in the second quarter, up 28% year over year.
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