Apple also uses Alibaba AI in China... iPhones to be equipped with a “China-made brain” [IT Item of the Day]

[Financial News] Apple, which has linked ChatGPT to its own artificial intelligence (AI) service in the United States, is using Alibaba’s AI in China. It has chosen an AI model from a local company to clear Chinese government regulations. Chinese iPhone users, who have so far been unable to use AI features, are expected to be able to experience Apple Intelligence as early as the end of this month.
According to foreign media outlets including the South China Morning Post (SCMP) and Reuters on the 16th, Apple Intelligence and Alibaba AI models were included in network access approvals updated by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology for the iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro and some earlier models.
The approved models are Alibaba’s “Qwen (Qwen/Tongyi Qianwen)” and “Tongyi Wanxiang.” Qwen is a large language model (LLM) that understands text and answers questions, while Tongyi Wanxiang is an AI model that generates images and videos. Apple plans to use these models in China to offer some Apple Intelligence features.
Apple Intelligence is an AI service that supports writing, translation, photo editing and more. It is already available in major markets, including the United States, but its launch was delayed in mainland China because Apple had to establish a service infrastructure that complies with local regulations.
This is also why Apple is using Alibaba AI in China. China applies separate regulations and approval procedures to generative AI services. Apple has been preparing an AI service tailored to the Chinese market by using local models. This approval effectively means it has cleared key steps toward an official launch.
Tim Cook, chairman of Apple’s board, gave an interview to local media in Shanghai, China, on the 15th and disclosed that the approval had been granted. Cook said a preview of Apple Intelligence is expected to be unveiled in China around the end of this month.
However, not all Apple Intelligence features will be available in the initial service. According to foreign media reports, “Siri AI,” which enhances conversational and task-performing capabilities, is expected to be excluded from the first preview. The features actually offered and the official launch schedule may vary depending on local regulations and service preparations.
[email protected] Yoon Hong-jip Reporter