Apple has trained a large language model specifically for the China market with support from Alibaba Group, according to three people familiar with the matter who spoke with Reuters. The development marks a departure from the iPhone maker’s prior strategy of relying entirely on third-party models to power artificial intelligence features in the country, where U.S. models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Anthropic’s Claude are unavailable.
Alibaba Partnership and Regulatory Clearance
The AI model was developed in partnership with Alibaba and trained with the Chinese tech giant’s support, sources told Reuters. The initiative follows a regulatory process that ended last month when the Cyberspace Administration of China registered Apple’s generative AI service. According to Reuters reporting, Alibaba’s Qwen model is incorporated into the version of Apple Intelligence shipping with compatible devices in China, alongside technology from Baidu.
Did you know? Alibaba’s U.S.-listed shares climbed about 4% in premarket trading following news of the July registration, reflecting investor expectations that the partnership could shift China’s artificial intelligence ecosystem.
Dual-Track Strategy for Chinese iPhones
Apple’s planned rollout represents a dual-track strategy for a foreign technology firm operating in China. By combining its own custom-trained model with partner technology from Alibaba, Apple aims to navigate steep local regulations while retaining tighter control over the user experience. The company’s suite of AI tools, known as Apple Intelligence, is expected to launch in China in the coming months following an iOS update.
The absence of localized AI features on Chinese iPhones previously weighed on sales as consumers gravitated toward domestic rivals like Huawei that already feature built-in assistants. Alibaba chairman Joe Tsai confirmed the partnership in February 2025 during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, stating that Apple chose to work with Alibaba after talking to several companies in China.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Apple Intelligence launch in China?
According to sources speaking with Reuters, Apple Intelligence is expected to launch in China in the coming months following an update to the iOS operating system.
Which Chinese company is partnering with Apple?
Apple developed its China-specific model with support from Alibaba Group, and its AI services incorporate technology from Alibaba’s Qwen and Baidu.
Why did Apple need a custom model for China?
U.S. models such as ChatGPT and Claude are unavailable in China, and local regulations require foreign firms to navigate strict approval processes through the Cyberspace Administration of China.
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