Apple Intelligence cleared for use on iPhones in China after regulatory approval
Apple has cleared a major regulatory hurdle in rolling out generative AI features in China, one of the company’s most important markets. China’s cyberspace regulator said on Wednesday that Apple Intelligence, the company’s on-device artificial intelligence service, has been registered for use on iPhones in the country. Reuters reported.
Apple Intelligence was launched in 2024, but it took years to get Beijing’s permission. Its suite of AI tools has changed significantly over this time, with the US company changing its core models and rebuilding its suite on top of Alphabet Inc.’s Google Gemini models.
After a long wait, the Cyberspace Administration of China has added Apple’s generative AI services to its list of newly approved providers, joining iPhone maker Huawei Technologies and Xiaomi Corp. placed it next to Chinese companies such as.
Alibaba’s Qwen AI will power Apple Intelligence in China
Apple’s intelligence services in China will include capabilities from artificial intelligence models developed by Baidu and Alibaba, the news agency reported, citing a source familiar with the matter.
Separately, Alibaba told the news agency that Alibaba’s Qwen AI will be integrated into Apple Intelligence for users in China. This integration will occur on iOS, iPadOS, macOS and VisionOS.
However, the official statement did not specify a date for when Apple Intelligence will be available on iPhones sold in China.
The approval also paves the way for Apple to promote AI features to Chinese users, where foreign AI services are subject to strict regulatory scrutiny.
Artificial intelligence is widely viewed as a key differentiator of Apple’s newest devices, making advanced AI features important to increasing their appeal and competitiveness. The regulatory approval marks a significant breakthrough in Apple’s nearly two-year effort to bring AI features to the Chinese market, according to a report by Hong Kong-based news agency Futubull.
Alibaba and Apple shares rise in premarket trading
Alibaba Group’s U.S.-listed shares rose nearly 5% in premarket trading after Chinese regulators approved Apple’s on-device AI system for launch in the country.
Meanwhile, Apple shares gained nearly 1% in pre-opening trading.
Apple reported a 24.4% year-on-year increase in its shipments in China in the second quarter.
The approval comes after Apple’s outgoing CEO Tim Cook joined US President Donald Trump’s business delegation during his visit to Beijing in May. Cook, who will hand over the reins to John Ternus in September, has continued to develop Apple’s relationship with China over the years despite rising tensions between Washington and Beijing over tariffs and technology export controls. Bloomberg News reported.
