Apple is building a China-specific artificial intelligence model with support from Alibaba as it prepares to bring Apple Intelligence to users in the country.

Apple has developed its own large language model for the Chinese market, with Alibaba helping during the training process, according to reporting first published by Reuters and reported by Decrypt. The move gives Apple more control over its AI system while allowing it to work with a major Chinese technology company.

The strategy is important because Apple cannot simply bring the same AI setup it uses in other markets to China.

Apple Builds China AI Model

Apple Intelligence has faced a slower path to China because AI services operating there must meet local rules and pass regulatory review.

The China version is expected to combine Apple’s own model with Alibaba’s Qwen, while Baidu technology may also be included. Apple has already been working with Chinese companies as it prepares the service for launch.

That local approach is necessary because major U.S. AI services such as ChatGPT are not available in China in the same way they are in many other countries.

For Apple, developing its own China-focused model could also give it greater control over how Apple Intelligence works on its devices instead of depending entirely on a third-party system.

Alibaba Helps Apple

Alibaba is becoming a key part of Apple’s AI plans in China.

The companies have been working together on Apple’s China strategy, with Alibaba’s Qwen expected to support Apple Intelligence once it launches. The partnership gives Apple a local technology partner while it continues developing its own AI system.

The move also comes as Apple faces strong competition from Chinese smartphone makers that have moved quickly to add AI features to their devices.

Apple Intelligence is expected to reach Chinese users through an iOS update in the coming months, although Apple has not announced a specific launch date.

For Apple, the China launch is becoming more than a delayed version of its global AI rollout. It is a separate strategy built around Apple’s own technology, Chinese partners and the rules of one of its most important markets.