Apple has trained its own Chinese-language large language model intended for the iPhone’s AI capabilities, and the work was developed with the support of Alibaba Group, three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.
Until now, Apple had planned to rely on domestic partners’ models for the China rollout because generative solutions used in the U.S., such as Anthropic’s Claude or OpenAI’s ChatGPT, are not available in China. A model customized for the Chinese market would, according to sources, give Apple greater control in a strategically important market where local rivals like Huawei have gained advantages with AI-enabled devices.
Sources said Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of AI features, could launch in China with the next iOS update in the coming months. The move followed a lengthy approval process: last month the Cyberspace Administration of China registered Apple’s generative AI service.
Under the approved arrangement, Alibaba’s Qwen model will be incorporated into the China version of Apple Intelligence, and integration of Baidu technology is also planned. It remains unclear how Apple’s own China-targeted model will be used alongside those third‑party models.
Apple recently published a Chinese-language guide explaining how compatible Mac users could connect Qwen to the Siri digital assistant and the Writer tools; that guide was later removed without explanation.
The development is a rare instance of U.S.–China technological cooperation amid growing trade and diplomatic tensions. China remains crucial to Apple’s business results, accounting for a significant share of revenue, and analysts have pointed to the lack of AI features on Chinese iPhones as a key factor in a decline in sales as consumers shift toward domestic brands that offer built‑in AI assistants.
If the planned setup is authorized and implemented, Apple could become the first foreign company allowed by Beijing to operate its own AI model in China. The reporting is based on Reuters’ cited sources.
Key facts
- Developer: Apple; development supported by Alibaba Group (according to sources)
- Regulatory step: Cyberspace Administration of China registered Apple’s generative AI service last month
- Launch timing: Apple Intelligence China edition expected in the coming months with the next iOS update
- Third-party integration: Alibaba Qwen confirmed to be included; Baidu technology planned for integration
This article was prepared with assistance from an AI tool; a journalist edited and verified the final content.
