Tech Desk 
Feb 12, 2025
Apple is partnering with Alibaba to integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) smartphone in the Chinese market. The Cupertino-based tech giant is seeking solutions that can help it bring AI capabilities to its iPhones in China and fight against strong rivals like Huawei, Honor, and more.
Despite being a flagship, Apple introduced iPhone 16 models in China as AI-less handsets, while Huawei devices began including AI tools in 2023.
AI-free iPhone 16 series led to a major decline in the Chinese sales field. The American tech manufacturer lost ground in China’s smartphone market to its rival last year. However, Apple is reportedly preparing to take back on Huawei with new partners.
Further reports suggested that Apple went to several Chinese firms for AI support. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) initially chose Baidu to roll out AI features to the Chinese iPhone variants. However, the company’s AI model didn’t meet the required parameters for Apple Intelligence.
Other Chinese options for AI support include Tencent and ByteDance. The company is rumoured to use Huawei-powered DeepSeek AI models for its future iPhones.
With these efforts, Apple also predicts a rebound in iPhone sales in Q1 2025.
