Apple AI for China: Alibaba & Baidu Powering Local Models

Apple is developing a custom AI model specifically for the Chinese market. This initiative involves a collaboration with Alibaba Group and will also use Baidu's technology for search functions. This marks a significant change in Apple's usual AI strategy, adapting to China's strict technological regulations. The Cyberspace Administration of China approved Apple's generative AI service in July 2026. This approval allows the deployment of Apple Intelligence on iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Vision Pro within China. Apple Intelligence began its worldwide rollout in October 2024, but faced a nearly 22-month delay in China due to rigorous AI regulations. The Alibaba Qwen large language model will be integrated into the Chinese version of Apple Intelligence for functions like text and image generation. This partnership makes Apple the first foreign entity to receive Beijing's endorsement for a proprietary AI model in mainland China. This helps Apple compete in a crucial market where it faces strong competition from domestic rivals.