Apple Intelligence Registered for Public Use in China

Apple Intelligence is one step closer to launching in China after the country's cyberspace regulator confirmed Wednesday that the on-device generative AI service has been registered for public use, clearing a major hurdle for the company's software rollout.



Under Chinese law, companies must register large language models and generative AI services before offering them to consumers. To comply with local regulations, Apple is partnering with regional technology companies. Alibaba confirmed to Reuters that its Qwen model will be integrated into Apple Intelligence across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS in China. A Baidu spokesperson also confirmed the company is working with Apple to develop Apple Intelligence features for Chinese iPhone users.


The registration resolves a lingering question surrounding Apple's global AI strategy. When the company detailed its next-generation Apple Intelligence features earlier this year, it explicitly noted the tools would remain unavailable in China while it worked through the local approval process. A specific launch timeline for the localized service has not yet been announced.

The rollout could further strengthen Apple's recent momentum in the Chinese smartphone market. Apple reported a 24.4 percent year-over-year increase in its China shipments during the second quarter, following an aggressive promotional strategy that helped it navigate the highly competitive 618 shopping festival.

Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on X, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more Apple Intelligence updates.