Apple begins AI trial in China, powered by Alibaba
Apple has begun testing its AI tools with developers in China, almost two years after launching them in the US. To comply with Beijing’s strict rules, it is relying on Alibaba’s Qwen model.
On Wednesday, Apple initiated a long-awaited trial of its AI tools for Chinese users as it aims to compete with local smartphone manufacturers in a critical market. The trial, initially limited to developers, is set to become available to the public in December. Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of on-device AI features, first launched in the US and other markets in autumn 2024, marking Apple’s first significant entry into generative AI.
However, China’s stringent regulations delayed the launch, and Google and OpenAI, whose models are used elsewhere, are unavailable in the country. Apple will partner with Alibaba’s Qwen AI assistant to enhance its devices with more advanced AI capabilities, alongside its existing tools. This release includes 18 features, such as real-time translation during phone calls and message summarisation and proofreading tools.
While Ivan Lam, a senior analyst at Counterpoint Research, acknowledges that Apple Intelligence effectively addresses a longstanding gap in its AI offerings, he believes the company will not gain a significant advantage in the competitive market. Qwen, a series of open-weight AI models and AI assistants developed by Alibaba, has gained popularity due to its accessibility, allowing users to download and adapt models for free.
Unlike OpenAI’s GPT, which powers ChatGPT, Qwen’s varying versions have been downloaded more than any other open AI model. Besides Apple, BMW and UEFA have also adopted Qwen to create an in-car assistant and enhance fan engagement and content management, respectively. Under Chinese rules, AI service providers must register with the internet regulator, utilize local data centers, and process data within the country.
Apple received regulatory approval in July, following discussions with several Chinese tech firms, including Alibaba, Baidu, ByteDance, and Tencent. Zhang Yi, founder of research firm iiMedia, stated that relying on local partners indicates a structural concession by Apple concerning its pricing and control over the AI experience in China.
The delay was attributed to compliance costs rather than research and development. According to Omdia, more than 110 million iPhones in China can run Apple Intelligence, providing a solid foundation for quick adoption, but fierce competition among Chinese mobile phone manufacturers and internet companies is also intense.
Written by urgent.news from Euronews's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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