GoKawiilChina approves Alibaba's Qwen AI models for Apple Intelligence rollout
China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has granted regulatory approval for Alibaba's Tongyi Qianwen (Qwen) language models and Tongyi Wanxiang image/video tool to power Apple Intelligence on the mainland. Network access permits have also been issued for the upcoming iPhone Duo and 18 Pro, with the Duo set to launch in China next week featuring the revamped Siri.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The approval clears a key regulatory hurdle that has kept Apple Intelligence largely unavailable on mainland China nearly two years after its US debut, despite Apple securing initial clearance back in July. By partnering with a domestic AI firm rather than Google or OpenAI, Apple appears to be adapting its approach to satisfy China's AI and privacy rules, a strategy first reported in early 2025 and confirmed over the summer.
- Chinese regulators approved Alibaba's Qwen models and Tongyi Wanxiang tool for use in Apple Intelligence.
- The iPhone Duo and 18 Pro have received network access permits ahead of next week's China launch.
- Apple is relying on a local AI partner instead of Google or OpenAI to meet China's regulatory requirements.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro — This is the device at the center of Apple Intelligence's rollout, built to handle on-device AI features smoothly. If you want the latest hardware ready for Siri's AI upgrades and future regional model integrations, it's a solid pick.”,
See Apple iPhone 16 Pro on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Matt Tate, 2026-10-14
Published there as: “Alibaba AI models cleared for use in Apple Intelligence in China just in time for the iPhone Duo launch”
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