Apple is stepping up its game in China by developing a new language model specifically tailored for the country’s market, according to sources familiar with the situation. This marks a shift from Apple’s previous strategy of depending on third-party AI models to enhance its devices in China.
The new AI model was created in collaboration with Alibaba Group, China’s tech powerhouse, which played a key role in supporting its development. The details of this partnership haven’t been publicly announced, as the information remains sensitive.
Previously, Apple had relied on domestic partners to introduce generative AI features in iPhones and other devices in China. Unlike in the U.S., where Apple utilizes popular models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, these models are not available for use in China.
Neither Apple nor Alibaba has commented on this exciting development. Apple’s suite of AI tools, known as Apple Intelligence, is expected to launch in China soon, following updates to the iOS operating system.
Having its own AI model tailored for China gives Apple more control over the user experience in its most competitive international market. The decision comes as Apple faces stiff competition from local brands, like Huawei, which have quickly integrated AI technology into their devices.
This latest plan showcases Apple’s unique approach to expanding its AI capabilities in China, allowing it to navigate the regulatory landscape that has restricted many other American tech companies from fully participating in the Chinese market. If successful, Apple would become the first foreign company to unveil a proprietary AI model in China, marking an unusual partnership between American and Chinese tech firms amid rising tensions between the two nations.
Navigating Regulations
Apple’s development follows a lengthy approval process, which concluded last month when China’s internet regulator officially registered Apple’s generative AI service. This milestone means that Apple Intelligence will now make its way to compatible iPhones and other devices in China.
As part of this plan, Alibaba’s Qwen AI model will be integrated into Apple Intelligence, joining forces with other technologies from firms like Baidu, enhancing the overall functionality available on Apple devices.
Last week, Apple even released a user guide in Chinese, showing how certain Mac users in mainland China could link Qwen with Siri. However, this guide was later removed without any explanation.
Shares of Alibaba saw an increase of about 4% in premarket trading following the news of the registration, indicating that investors are optimistic about how this collaboration could transform the AI landscape in China.
A Strategic Move for Future Growth
Apple’s partnership with Alibaba was first announced in February 2025, when Alibaba’s chairman mentioned that Apple had decided to work with them after discussions with several other companies. The rollout was postponed to ensure compliance with Chinese regulations.
China is crucial for Apple’s business, constituting a significant portion of its revenue. The lack of AI features in previous models was noted as a drawback, especially as consumers increasingly turned to local brands equipped with AI assistants.
As Apple moves forward with its self-trained model, questions remain about how it will interact with third-party Chinese models and what that collaboration will look like.
