Apple’s Chinese AI problem (perhaps) solved with Alibaba – Computerworld

So, when is Apple Intelligence coming to China?

News of the deal emerges just weeks before April, when Apple has already suggested it will introduce Simplified Chinese localization for Apple Intelligence. While both Apple and Alibaba must now gain regulatory approval for their plan, the signal within the smoke suggests a Q2 introduction of Chinese Apple Intelligence support. This could prove a shrewd move that might yet stimulate iPhone sales there — particularly with the introduction of the more affordable iPhone SE. 

Together, Apple could gain twin benefits — hardware sales and Apple Intelligence proliferation. Of course, the mass market AI that wins the platform wars will be the version people use, and Apple is likely optimistic that its huge and loyal user base will use its generative AI tools. 

Alibaba might be the first Chinese AI service supplier to gain integration on the iPhone, but perhaps not be the last. “Based on Apple’s broader rhetoric about providing users AI choice, we could also see a scenario where Apple creates an initial AI partnership with Alibaba that eventually expands to other local Chinese cloud players over time,” said Morgan Stanley in a client note.