Apple has trained its own AI for China rather than using Gemini
When Apple Intelligence launches in China, it will use a large language model made by Apple, instead of being based on either Google Gemini or the Chinese Qwen. Apple Intelligence is coming to China The Chinese version of Apple Intelligence will utilize Qwen , but according to Reuters , the main LLM will be one trained by Apple. The training was done in partnership with Alibaba, but this is still…
Apple has reportedly partnered with Alibaba and Baidu to develop a proprietary AI model for use in China, after finding Google Gemini AI unavailable in the country. This move aims to help Apple deliver AI features to Chinese customers, many of whom are interested in generative AI technology and have cited the delayed rollout of Apple Intelligence as a factor in their decision to delay an iPhone upgrade.
The partnership is seen as a strategic tool to navigate protectionism and political rivalry, allowing Apple to offer a proprietary AI model in China for the first time. Apple will work with both Alibaba’s Qwen and Baidu’s technology, with the latter's deployment still unclear. The progress on this AI initiative began in February 2025 when Apple and Alibaba submitted co-developed AI features for approval by China’s Cyberspace Administration.
The Cyberspace Administration finally registered Apple’s service recently. Chinese iPhone users can now expect to work with Apple Intelligence on their devices with the upcoming new Apple operating systems.
Written by urgent.news from Computerworld's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Apple cracks China with Alibaba for iPhone AI computerworld.com
