China’s cyberspace regulator in Shanghai has approved Apple’s AI service, Apple Intelligence, for use on the company’s iPads and Mac laptops, marking a significant expansion of the AI functionality previously authorized only for iPhones in the country.
- Apple Intelligence approved for iPads and Macs in China by Shanghai regulator
- Service integrates Alibaba's Qwen AI model for enhanced AI features
- Broader rollout follows initial iPhone approval and upcoming iOS 27.3 release
Why it matters
China is one of the world’s most complex technology markets due to stringent rules around AI and data governance. Apple Intelligence’s new clearance for iPads and Macs shows Apple’s efforts to secure a stronger foothold in this key market through localized AI solutions and partnerships.
Unlike in other regions where Apple relies on OpenAI's ChatGPT, the AI capabilities in China are powered by the local Qwen AI model developed by Alibaba, alongside technical contributions from Baidu. This approach reflects how foreign tech companies must often collaborate with domestic firms to operate AI services in China.
What to watch next
Apple has not announced an exact timeline for when Apple Intelligence features will become available on iPads and Macs in China, but the expanded registration suggests release is imminent, possibly aligned with upcoming iOS and macOS versions shipping by year-end.
Stakeholders should monitor how Apple scales Apple Intelligence’s functionality for iPadOS and macOS users in China and how the partnership with Alibaba and Baidu evolves, especially considering ongoing regulatory developments and competitive pressures in the Chinese AI landscape.