China Approves Apple Intelligence on iPhones, Opening 18% Sales Market
Updated
Updated · The Motley Fool · Jul 16
China Approves Apple Intelligence on iPhones, Opening 18% Sales Market
3 articles · Updated · The Motley Fool · Jul 16
Summary
Apple won Chinese regulatory approval to deploy Apple Intelligence on iPhones, ending a two-year licensing process in one of its most important markets.
Alibaba and Baidu are supporting the rollout to meet China’s requirement that foreign AI services work with local partners, giving Apple a path to offer AI features domestically.
24% year-over-year iPhone sales growth in China has already outpaced rivals as rising memory and component costs pushed many Android vendors to raise prices.
China accounts for about 18% of Apple sales, so the AI launch could deepen market-share gains and expand its installed base for services, apps and accessories.
How will Apple's China deal accelerate the global AI arms race with the US?
Did Apple trade its core AI principles for access to the massive Chinese market?
Apple Intelligence Launches in China After Regulatory Approval: Alibaba and Baidu Partnerships Enable Generative AI Features
Overview
On July 16, 2026, Apple Intelligence received approval to launch in China, marking a major milestone for Apple in this key market. This approval allows Apple to bring advanced AI features to Chinese users by integrating domestic technology, specifically Alibaba’s Qwen and Baidu’s AI models, into its devices like iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro. By partnering with these local tech giants, Apple not only meets China’s strict regulatory requirements but also leverages local expertise, ensuring that Chinese users can enjoy powerful AI-driven text and image capabilities within Apple’s ecosystem.