Apple Intelligence has been registered for use on iPhones in China, clearing a critical regulatory step toward the long-delayed introduction of Apple’s generative AI service in the country.

China requires companies to register large language models and public-facing generative AI services with regulators before releasing them. The registration was disclosed by the country’s cyberspace regulator on Wednesday, Reuters reported.

Apple Turns to Local AI Models

Apple Intelligence will incorporate capabilities from models developed by Alibaba and Baidu, according to a source familiar with the matter who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity.

Alibaba confirmed that its Qwen model will be integrated into Apple Intelligence across the company’s operating systems in China. The integration will cover iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS.

A Baidu spokesperson also confirmed that the company is working with Apple to develop Apple Intelligence features for Chinese iPhone users. The two partnerships give Apple access to locally developed models as it adapts its AI service to China’s regulatory and technical environment.

Apple did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.

Why It Matters

The registration removes a significant regulatory hurdle for Apple in one of its largest and most competitive markets. Chinese consumers have been waiting for Apple Intelligence while the company navigated requirements that do not apply to the service in many other countries.

The development could help Apple strengthen its position against domestic smartphone manufacturers that have already incorporated generative AI into their devices.

The use of Alibaba and Baidu models also illustrates how international technology companies may need localized AI partnerships to operate within China. For Apple, the arrangement allows it to move toward offering its global AI experience while complying with local model-registration requirements.

China’s regulator did not provide a launch date for Apple Intelligence. The next development to watch will be Apple’s rollout schedule and the specific features powered by Alibaba’s Qwen and Baidu’s models across its devices in China.