Why is Apple joining Chinese firms for Apple Intelligence?
Apple, one of the world’s largest tech companies, is preparing to launch its artificial intelligence system Apple Intelligence in China by the end of 2025. This move is highly significant for Apple as China remains a vast and competitive market, where launching such technology without local partnerships is nearly impossible.
What is Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s flagship artificial intelligence project, introduced in 2024. The system provides advanced AI features across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, including smarter Siri interactions, personalised content generation, and visual intelligence. While these AI features have already been rolled out in Western markets, launching them in China has been difficult due to the country’s stringent government regulations and complex rules.
Why is Launching in China Difficult?
China’s strict regulations mean no foreign company can launch generative AI products without partnering with local firms. Laws on data localisation and content censorship create major challenges for companies like Apple.
To overcome these hurdles, Apple has partnered with two leading Chinese tech giants — Baidu and Alibaba. Baidu will provide technical support and AI infrastructure, while Alibaba will ensure compliance with China’s regulatory framework. This collaboration will help Apple secure government approval for its AI services in China.
Partnership with Baidu and Alibaba
Apple’s partnership with Baidu ensures access to local AI models and data processing capabilities. Meanwhile, Alibaba will act as a regulatory partner, ensuring Apple Intelligence aligns with China’s censorship rules and data protection laws.
Alibaba Chairman Joe Tsai has already confirmed that his company is working with Apple to enable a compliant launch of Apple’s AI features in China. This partnership is expected to help Apple balance political sensitivities amid strained US-China relations.
Possible Launch Timeline
Reports suggest that Apple Intelligence could debut in China with iOS 26.1 or iOS 26.2, scheduled for release by the end of 2025. Currently, Apple is testing the service internally with its Chinese employees, while the general public has yet to gain access.
It has also been reported that iPhones registered with a Chinese Apple ID are unable to use Apple Intelligence, even if purchased abroad. In April 2024, Apple launched a simplified Chinese version of Apple Intelligence, but it was only available to users outside mainland China.
Market Pressure and Competition
China represents a crucial market for Apple, where rivals like Huawei and OPPO are already leveraging AI technologies to strengthen their positions. The absence of Apple Intelligence has hindered Apple’s competitiveness in the country. CEO Tim Cook has admitted that the lack of AI features has impacted iPhone sales.
As a result, the launch of Apple Intelligence in China is expected to serve as a major selling point for the iPhone 17 series, making the new devices more appealing to consumers.
Political and National Security Concerns
Apple’s partnerships in China are politically sensitive for both Washington and Beijing. Some US lawmakers have described the deal as “deeply troubling,” warning it could pose national security risks. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a senior member of the US House Committee, has cautioned that Apple’s cooperation may accelerate China’s AI capabilities, potentially threatening US interests.
Nevertheless, Apple is determined to position Apple Intelligence in China as a secure, reliable, and fully compliant product in line with local regulations.
Conclusion
The launch of Apple Intelligence in China marks a significant step for American tech companies seeking to expand their AI technologies in the Chinese market. Rivals like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft have yet to launch AI services in China. Apple’s approach will serve as a key test of how global companies adapt to China’s strict rules while maintaining competitiveness.
Analysts believe that if Apple succeeds, iPhone sales in China could rise by 10–15%. However, delays or setbacks could weaken Apple’s competitive position in one of its most critical markets.
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