New Delhi: Apple’s own AI model is being created specifically for the Chinese market, and is doing so in collaboration with Chinese tech giant Alibaba, sources close to the situation say. The move marks a change in Apple’s earlier plan of mainly using AI models from local Chinese companies for its AI services.
To be used by users in China, Apple has been cooperating with Alibaba to train the new model. The company will be adopting this model in addition to Alibaba’s Qwen AI model in its efforts to introduce Apple Intelligence to the Chinese market.
Apple’s AI initiative in China has been delayed compared to other markets due to China’s regulations on generative AI services. Prior to being able to be released publicly, AI models and services must undergo regulatory testing in China. In July, Apple Intelligence was been registered with the Chinese cyberspace regulator, by marking a significant milestone towards its debut.
Earlier this year, the company announced that it would partner with Alibaba to add AI capabilities for iPhone users in China. In recent times, Apple has even granted access to Mac users in mainland China to integrate Alibaba’s Qwen AI service with Siri and Writing Tools.
The updated move is significant because of the aggressive competition from Chinese smartphone makers for Apple in China. To be competitive in the market of consumers seeking AI-powered smartphones, companies like Huawei have been incorporating sophisticated AI capabilities into their products.
By training its own Chinese AI model, Apple could potentially have greater influence over the AI capabilities provided in its devices. Working with Alibaba also allows Apple to achieve local needs and utilize technology that has been created for Chinese users.
It is not yet known what part Apple Intelligence will play with its own model and Alibaba’s Qwen model. The report also suggests that Baidu technology may have something to do with Apple’s plans in China on AI.
The strategy will be an interesting move for Apple to make its latest iPhones and other devices more competitive in one of its largest markets, China.
