Apple AI to Launch in China with Alibaba & Baidu Partnership
Apple Prepares to Launch AI Features in China with Local Partners
Apple is gearing up to introduce Apple AI features in China as early as May. To make this happen, the company is working with Alibaba and Baidu, two major Chinese tech firms. These partnerships will help Apple meet the country’s strict government regulations according to a new Bloomberg report.
Adapting Apple Intelligence for China
Apple has teams in both China and the US working on tailoring its Apple Intelligence platform to fit local regulations. Navigating China’s complex approval process is a challenge, but Apple is making steady progress.
Alibaba is taking the lead by developing an on-device system for Apple’s AI models. This system will allow iPhone, iPad, and Mac users in China to access AI features while ensuring compliance with government rules. It will include built-in censorship and content filtering. Meanwhile, Baidu will focus on handling Visual Intelligence features, expected to roll out with the iPhone 16.
How Apple’s AI in China Will Differ
The Chinese version of Apple Intelligence will be quite different from what’s available in the US. In the US, Apple’s AI features rely on a mix of on-device processing, Private Cloud Compute, and ChatGPT integration. However, the Chinese version will lean heavily on Alibaba’s system. This setup will filter content in the background, making sure it aligns with government requirements.
Another key difference is availability. These AI features will only work on Apple devices sold in China. If someone buys an Apple device elsewhere and brings it into the country, they won’t be able to access the local AI system.
Apple’s Strategy to Regain Market Share
Apple has already submitted documents to Chinese authorities for approval. While some regulatory challenges remain, the company is pushing forward. This move comes at a time when Apple is facing declining sales in China. Local smartphone brands are gaining ground, partly because of their advanced AI features. By adapting its AI technology for the Chinese market, Apple hopes to stay competitive and win back customers.
