Apple reportedly works with Alibaba to jointly develop artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities for its iPhone and other Chinese devices. According to the report, the Cupertino-based tech giant passed through several AI-centric companies and finally chose Alibaba. The duo reportedly developed some AI features suitable for Apple’s Chinese user base, and are currently awaiting approval from regulators. There is still no timeframe for when Apple Intelligence will make its debut in the region. It is worth noting that a report earlier this month claimed that the company is also considering DeepSeek for the position.
It is reported that Apple and Alibaba cooperated with AI
The information report said the tech giant chose Alibaba as its AI partner in China and will work together to introduce AI capabilities in its devices. The publication cites unnamed people who know directly about the decision, and he also claims that the iPhone maker has co-developed AI capabilities with Alibaba.
Although no details about developing AI capabilities are shared, the report claims that these features have been submitted to China’s cyberspace regulators for approval. It is worth noting that any AI model or AI-driven functionality must be approved by the Chinese government before it operates in the country.
According to the report, Apple decided to work with Alibaba because the e-commerce giant has a large amount of personal data that includes shopping and payment behaviors of its users. The Cupertino-based company reportedly believes that data will allow it to build and provide more customized AI capabilities and services.
It is worth noting that Apple reportedly chose Baidu last year. However, iPhone manufacturers are said to have not impressed by the progress made by Chinese companies in developing the AI model of Apple Intelligence.
The report mentioned that in addition to Alibaba and Baidu, the tech giant has also been shortlisted for Tiktok’s parent company Bontedance and DeepSeek’s Tencent. However, DeepSeek did not eventually advance because Apple reportedly found the startup had less manpower and experience to support its large user base.
Apple recently launched some Apple Intelligence features in the EU (EU). Currently, China is the only region sold in the iPhone 16 series without any AI capabilities, which is one of the main sales points for smartphones. This reportedly led to a drop in sales in the December quarter, also known as the holiday quarter, which was the most important period for the tech giant.
